typewriter

UK: ˈtaɪpraɪtə | US: ˈtaɪpraɪtər

Definition

  1. n. a machine with keys for producing printed characters on paper

  2. n. (historical) a person who operates such a machine

Structure
type <print/impression>write <to form letters>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "typewriter" combines "type" (from Greek typos, meaning "impression" or "model") and "write" (from Old English wrītan, meaning "to scratch/draw letters"). The suffix "-er" denotes an agent or tool. Originally referring to the machine itself (late 19th century), it later also described the operator. The term reflects the device’s function: imprinting typed characters onto paper.

Examples

  1. She used an old typewriter to draft her novel.

  2. The typewriter’s keys jammed frequently.

  3. He worked as a typewriter in a legal office.

  4. Modern keyboards evolved from typewriter designs.

  5. The museum displayed a 1920s typewriter.