Timer
'taɪmər
Definitions
2 meaningsA device that measures a specific period of time or controls the operation of something based on a specific time.
'taɪmər
A device used to measure or regulate a period of time.
I set the timer for 30 minutes.
💡 Simply: Imagine a little machine that counts down the minutes and seconds. It's like the 'ding!' on your microwave when your food is ready. Timers help us keep track of time for different activities.
👶 For kids: A timer is a thing that counts down time. Like when you're baking cookies and want to know when they're done!
More Examples
The timer on the washing machine alerted me that the cycle was finished.
Use a kitchen timer to help manage your cooking schedule.
How It's Used
"The oven has a digital timer."
"The referee started the timer for the final minute."
A person or thing that measures time or records the time taken for an event.
'taɪmər
A person or thing that times something.
The timer was responsible for recording the swimmers' times.
💡 Simply: Sometimes 'timer' refers to the person who's responsible for keeping track of the time, like the person with the stopwatch at a race. They're the timekeepers!
👶 For kids: Sometimes, a timer can be a person who watches the time in a race or game!
More Examples
The race timer announced the winner's finishing time.
The company hired a professional timer to improve its work efficiency
How It's Used
"The official timer recorded the race results."
Idioms & expressions
Time's up!
The allotted time for an activity or task has expired.
"The teacher said, "Time's up! Put your pencils down.""
Against the clock
Rushed, under pressure due to a time constraint.
"We worked against the clock to finish the project on time."
From 'time' + '-er'. The suffix '-er' indicates an agent or instrument.
The word 'timer' has been used since the late 18th century, originally referring to devices for measuring time.
Memory tip
Think of the device that helps you keep track of time, like a kitchen timer when baking.
Word Origin
"time (tima) and the suffix -er indicating agent or instrument. "