timer

/'taimə/

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Word: Timer

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A timer is a device or tool that counts down or counts up time, and it can activate or deactivate something (like an alarm or a machine) at specific times. It’s often used to measure how long something takes or to signal when time is up.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use a timer when cooking (to know when your food is done).
• In sports, a timer is used to keep track of the time during a game or event.
• You can set a timer on your phone or use a stopwatch for timing activities.

Example Sentences:

1. "I set a timer for 20 minutes to bake the cake."
2. "The coach used a timer to record how fast the runners completed the race."

Advanced Usage:

• In a workplace, timers can be used during meetings to ensure that everyone gets equal time to speak.
• In scientific experiments, timers can help measure precise intervals for observations.

Word Variants:

• Timing (noun): The act of measuring time or the choice of when to do something.
  • Example: The timing of her speech was perfect.
• Timed (adjective): Something that is controlled by a timer.
  • Example: We had a timed quiz in class.

Different Meanings:

1. In sports: A timer refers to an official who keeps track of time during competitions.
   • Example: The timer signaled the end of the race.
2. In technology: A timer can refer to software that counts down or schedules tasks on computers or apps.
   • Example: My phone has a timer feature for reminders.

Synonyms:

• Stopwatch
• Clock
• Countdown timer
• Timekeeper

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Time is of the essence: This means that time is very important in a particular situation.
  • Example: We need to finish this project quickly; time is of the essence.
• Beat the clock: This means to finish something before a deadline.
  • Example: She managed to beat the clock and submit her assignment on time.

Summary:

A timer is a useful tool for anyone needing to measure time or manage activities.

Academic

Noun

1. a regulator that activates or deactivates a mechanism at set times
2. (sports) an official who keeps track of the time elapsed
3. a timepiece that measures a time interval and signals its end

Synonyms

• timekeeper