timer

word

/ˈtaɪmɝ/
TY-mur
/tˈaɪmɐ/
TY-muh

Definition

A timer is a device, app feature, or function that measures a period of time or counts down until something should happen. People use it for cooking, studying, exercise, and many other timed activities.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly, 'timer' means something that counts down and then makes a sound or gives a signal. 'Stopwatch' is different: it usually counts up from zero. Common collocations: 'set a timer', 'the timer went off', 'kitchen timer', and 'screen timer'.

Example Sentences

The timer went off right in the middle of my call.

natural

I set a timer for ten minutes.

basic

The timer on the oven is broken.

basic

I always use a timer at the gym because I lose track of time.

natural

Use a timer when you study.

basic

Can you set a timer so we don't forget the cookies?

natural