dongle
Meanings
Plural: dongles
Noun
- (computer science) an electronic device that must be attached to a computer in order for it to use protected software
- Any small device that plugs into an electronic device, typically a computer, and alters its functionality. Common examples include wireless modems, digital media players, software copy protect devices, and adapters.
- A hardware device used by a specific application for purposes of copy protection.
Origin / Etymology
Unknown. Likely a descendant of dangle, reflecting that electronic accessories such as computer peripherals often are plugged in via a flexible cable (although wirelessness is also often relevant). Claims that the word comes from a man named "Don Gall" were made up by an advertisement. First usage 1980-1985.
Scrabble Score: 8
dongle is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL worddongle is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
dongle is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary
Words With Friends Score: 11
dongle is a valid Words With Friends word