Put simply, a gadget is a tiny object like a tech device or appliance. It performs a particular function and is, in many cases, considered a novelty item. Thought of as unusual or clever, gadgets are designed to be beyond normal technological objects at the time of invention. In other words, they make you say WOW, OMG and things like that.
Gadgets Are Also Called Gizmos
The word “gadget” was invented in the 19th century, and there’s anecdotal evidence that the word was used as a placeholder for technical terms that can’t be remembered. It’s been this way since the 1850s, and was listed this way in Robert Brown’s book Spunyarn and Spindrift published in 1886. In it, a sailor boy’s log contained the term. It’s considered the earliest use of the term in print.
Etymology of the Word Gadget
Etymology of the word is disputed with a widely held story about the word being invented by Gaget, Gauthier & Cie, creators of the Statue of Liberty, refered to a small scale version of the monument as a Gaget, named for their firm. It is just a story, however, and it contradicts evidence that the word was already being used in nautical circles. In any case, the word didn’t become widely used in the United States until World War I. There are other sources that cite derivations from the French gachette which are applied to fire mechanism pieces otherwise known as French gagee which means a small accessory or tool.
What are Software Gadgets?
Software gadgets are computer programs which provide services without the need for independent applications. They run in environments that manage multiple gadgets. These include tings like JavaScript, forms input and a variety of image formats. The earliest reference was made by software developers of the Amiga computer in 1985.
The word “gadget” now covers a multitude of things beyond what it was originally designated. Gadgets are all kinds electrical thingies, as well as software apps, PDAs, iPhones – you name it, and it’s probably a gadget.
My Favorite Gadgets for 2011
- Apple iPhone 4 Black Smartphone 32GB (AT&T)
– it finally made it to Verizon and I got one.
- MOTOROLA XOOM Android Tablet
– My next purchase, I hope. I like it better than I like the Apple iPad!! I know; I’m weird.
- Keurig Platinum B70 Gourmet Single Cup Brewing System
– it’s a really cool gadget for making awesome coffee.
- Dyson DC25 Ball All-Floors Upright Vacuum Cleaner
– bet you never thought a vacuum cleaner is a gadget, but it could be. Dyson’s certainly are novel.
- Kindle 3G Wireless Reading Device
– The new one is small, sleek and perfect for reading on the go.
That’s my basic gadget wish list. This blog will be devoted to the latest and greatest gadgets out there. Suggestions for new additions are always welcome, and as new things hit the market, look for a write up here.
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