thumbwheel

noun

thumb·​wheel ˈthəm-ˌ(h)wēl How to pronounce thumbwheel (audio)
: a control for various devices consisting of a partially exposed wheel that can be turned by moving the exposed edge with a finger

Examples of thumbwheel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like most e-skates, the Ranger X5 is controlled by a rechargeable handheld remote that features a thumbwheel and digital display. — William Roberson, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Getting under way with a slight push and then rolling the thumbwheel to the stop, the Ranger builds speed quickly to its 26 mph limit. — William Roberson, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thumbwheel was in 1903

Rhymes for thumbwheel

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Browse Nearby Words

thumb turn
thumbwheel
thumby
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Cite this Entry

“Thumbwheel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thumbwheel. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.

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