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dongle

dongle

3 7.4
A small device you plug into a computer to let protected software run
  • noun
  • /ˈdɔŋɡəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : dongle
  • If you have a data dongle for your laptop, netbook, or iPad, that would be a third cellular mobile account.
  • USB dongle
  • Ethernet dongle
  • dongle adapter

I have a Bluetooth dongle for putting music into the stereo.

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Examples

  • And also this is the USB dongle for the Logitech mouse here.

  • I have a Bluetooth dongle for putting music into the stereo.

  • So we need a dongle to do all of these things.

  • So do you have this dongle?

  • It's not happening without the dongle.

  • Professor, we need the dongle.

  • But I've got the dongle.

  • You need a dongle for a wireless controller, or just buy a wired one.

    Blog text (19)
  • You can present via VGA dongle and charge the iPad at the same time.

    Blog text (19)
  • To play the game, you'll need to connect the dongle to your computer.

Synonyms

gadget
vsdongle
142 2.9

A small useful tool or machine for a special job

is specifically a connector for software enablement and protection rather than novelty
peripheral
vsdongle
  • Specialized
2 5.5

A device like a keyboard or printer that connects to a computer

is used mainly to unlock or protect software rather than general support
1 3.1

A device you add to a computer to make it work better or be easier to use

is specifically a small connector that enables or unlocks software features
peripheral device
vsdongle
  • Specialized
1 4.7

An electronic machine like a printer that connects to a computer to let you enter, see or save information

focuses on enabling or protecting software rather than general hardware tasks
computer peripheral
vsdongle
  • Specialized
3.0

A device that connects to a computer, like a mouse or printer, but is not inside it

is mainly for enabling software or protection, not general hardware use

How Protective

macaroon
  • Specialized
1 9.9
dongle
  • Specialized
3 7.4
passkey
  • Specialized
2 4.6

Surface Forms

dongle singular
dongles plural

Etymology

Dongle is a modern tech name with an uncertain history, and a helpful way to remember it is to think of the word dangle ('to hang'), because these small devices often 'hang' from a computer port. So a dongle is a small device that 'hangs' from your computer to allow or protect certain software.