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Definition of typewriter
typewriter
/ˈtaɪpˌraɪ.tɚ/
type · writ · er
Plural:typewriters
typewriter Lexical Profile
CEFR
B1
Grade
4
Tier
1
Usage
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Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A mechanical or electromechanical machine with keys that, when pressed, cause ink to be applied to a medium, usually paper, creating printed characters one by one.
Example
"Before the advent of personal computers, the journalist drafted all of his articles on a heavy manual typewriter."
2
A person who operates a typing machine. (Historical and mostly archaic)
Example
"In the late nineteenth century, the firm hired a skilled typewriter to efficiently process their outgoing correspondence."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for typewriter• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the 1860s from the words 'type' and 'writer'. Initially, the term was used to refer both to the new mechanical writing device and to the person who operated it (who is now exclusively called a typist).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Typewriter. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/typewriter