zapper

noun

zap·​per ˈza-pər How to pronounce zapper (audio)
: one that zaps: such as
a
: an electronic device designed to attract and kill insects
b
: a person who habitually changes channels (as to avoid commercials)
c
: a remote control device used for zapping

Examples of zapper 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.
Bug zappers are marketed to reduce the mosquito population, making outdoor spaces more usable during nighttime. Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2025 Original price: $79.99 A bug zapper attracts bugs to its bright light and zaps them, ridding you of your bug problem. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 13 June 2024 The zapper emits a blue-violet light that attracts flying insects like mosquitos, flies, gnats, and wasps, then zaps them with 4,200 volts of electricity. Maggie Horton, People.com, 13 June 2025 Inspectors found a fly zapper on top of a meat cold case in the deli department. Camila Pedrosa, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for zapper

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zapper was in 1969

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Zapper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zapper. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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