phaser

Etymology

* (science fiction): For the fictional weapon coined for Star Trek: originally a "ph(oton ma)ser," later changed canonically to a "phas(ed)-e(nergy) r(ectifier)" (of "nadions", not photons). * (phase modulation): phase + -er

noun

1. (music) An electronic device that produces special effects on the sound produced by an electric guitar etc.
2. (science fiction) Fictional energy weapon, with multiple settings for degree of intensity, from the television series Star Trek (1966–69).
   Captain James Kirk: "Set your phaser on one quarter. I'll leave mine on stun." September 8, 1966, George Clayton Johnson, The Man Trap (Star Trek), season 1, episode 1
   His oddly reserved nature stands out …. Whyte sets his phaser on stun, not kill. 1995 July, THIS magazine, page 21
   A Bajoran rushed past with an armful of phaser rifles, another with a box of hand phasers. 1999, Dafydd ab Hugh, chapter 3, in Fallen Heroes Star Trek: Deep Space Nine; 5], New York, N.Y.: Pocket Books
   Giolitti's Gold Key art is widely admired, … and this is a terrific opportunity to pick up a page—set your phasers on bid. 2004, Hertiage Signature Auction #811, page 185
   I said, "Set phasers on be-a-bastard." 2009, Meg Gardiner, China Lake
3. A phase modulator
4. Alternative form of PHASR

verb

1. (science fiction, transitive) To shoot with a phaser weapon.