What is Gadget? – Definition, Etymology, Types, and More

Definition Gadget

A gadget is a hardware device or accessory that makes your life more comfortable or more enjoyable. Gadgets are also familiar as gizmos. If you look around you, surely have some at hand.

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The Etymology of the word gadget

Although there are several theories about the etymology of the term gadget the most popular goes back to the years 1884-1885, when the French company that was responsible for the founding of the Statue of Liberty, “Gadget, Gauthier & Cia,” decided to sell miniature replicas of the monument to finance the project.

There is another theory that says, in the field of navigation, which ensures that it comes from the Francophone terms gâchette or gagé. In any case, the term began to use and became popular in Anglo-Saxon countries in the 1980s.

Gadgets and popular culture

Also, non-English speaking countries use the word gadget. For example, in France and other European countries, it was extending through the animation series “Inspector Gadget.”

Whose protagonist, a clumsy and clueless detective, equippes with endless gadgets that came out of his hat like a hand with an umbrella (gadgetoparaguas) or a radar (gadgetoradar).

Also, in movies like “James Bond” or in the series “Batman” and “Iron Man,” we see how the protagonists are always dependent on their equipment and gadgets. On the Internet, there are also multiple websites and blogs dedicated to the world of gizmos. Another word that many Internet users use to refer to a gadget.

 Types of gadgets

All kinds of technological devices such as iPod mobiles, or PDAs electronic gadgets such as radios. And devices with integrated circuits, mechanics such as

• bikes,
• watches,
• thermometers or computers,
• mini-applications called Widgets that facilitate access to frequently used functions are examples of gadgets.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of Electronic Gadgets

Electronic gadgets have revolutionized the way we communicate, work, play, shop. The benefits of electronic gadgets are they make our lives simpler and more comfortable.

Gadgets help us stay connected by giving access to email,

• text messages,
• phone services,
• video chat, and social media. Electronic devices have changed the world of shopping by allowing online shoppers to buy millions of products with the tap of a finger.

Disadvantages of Electronic Gadgets

The production and disposal of these devices have a significant effect on the global environment. Many devices contain hazardous materials that can contaminate soil if not disposed of properly.

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