printer
A machine that is connected to a computer and used for putting writing or images onto paper. It typically uses ink or toner to create a physical copy of a digital document.
Examples
3 of 5I need to buy a new printer for my home office.
I need to buy a new printer for my home office.
Please ensure the printer is configured correctly before the meeting.
Please ensure the printer is configured correctly before the meeting.
My printer is acting up again!
My printer is acting up again!
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'print' and add '-er' (a suffix meaning a person or thing that does something). A printer is a 'thing that prints'.
Quick Quiz
The _______ is out of ink, so the text on the paper is very light.
Correct!
The correct answer is: printer
Examples
I need to buy a new printer for my home office.
everydayI need to buy a new printer for my home office.
Please ensure the printer is configured correctly before the meeting.
formalPlease ensure the printer is configured correctly before the meeting.
My printer is acting up again!
informalMy printer is acting up again!
The research paper was produced using a high-quality laser printer.
academicThe research paper was produced using a high-quality laser printer.
The office printer is out of paper, so please refill the tray.
businessThe office printer is out of paper, so please refill the tray.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
printer jam
printer jam
out of ink
out of ink
print preview
print preview
Often Confused With
'Print' is the verb (action) or the resulting image, while 'printer' is the physical machine.
A copier makes duplicates of physical paper, while a printer creates physical paper from digital files.
Usage Notes
Use 'printer' to refer specifically to the hardware device. It is a countable noun, so you can have 'one printer' or 'many printers'.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'print machine' instead of the standard word 'printer'.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'print' and add '-er' (a suffix meaning a person or thing that does something). A printer is a 'thing that prints'.
Word Origin
Derived from the Middle English 'prenten', which comes from the Latin 'premere', meaning 'to press'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In modern 'paperless' offices, printers are used less frequently than in the past, but they remain essential for legal and physical documentation.
Quick Quiz
The _______ is out of ink, so the text on the paper is very light.
Correct!
The correct answer is: printer
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
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