a device designed to close or open an electric circuit when a button or knob is depressed, and to return to a normal position when it is released.
2.
the button or knob depressed.
Also, pushbutton.
Origin
1875-80, Americanism
push-button
[poo sh-buht-n] /ˈpʊʃˌbʌt n/
adjective
1.
operated by or as if by push buttons:
push-button tuning.
2.
using complex, automated weapons, as long-range missiles, that require only simple initial steps to put them into action:
push-button warfare.
Origin
1875-80, Americanism
Examples from the web for push-button
They identify with the executives, the push-button executors.
Some flat gas stoves have push-button starters and therefore don't require matches.
The glove has four custom-built push-button sensors sewn into the fingers.
British Dictionary definitions for push-button
push button
noun
1.
an electrical switch operated by pressing a button, which closes or opens a circuit
2.
(modifier) push-button
operated by a push button: a push-button radio
initiated as simply as by pressing a button: push-button warfare
Word Origin and History for push-button
adj.
"characterized by the use of push-buttons," 1945, originally of military systems, earlier "operated by push-buttons" (1903), from push-button (n.), 1865, from push (v.) + button (n.). Earlier was press-button (1892), from the noun (1879).
push-button in Technology
electronics A roughly fingertip-sized plastic cover attached to a spring-loaded, normally-open switch, which, when pressed, closes the switch. Typical examples are the keys on a computer or calculator keyboard and mouse buttons. (1997-07-07)