vibrator

Etymology

From New Latin vibrātor, from Latin vibrō (“to vibrate”). By surface analysis, vibrate + -or.

noun

1. A device that vibrates or causes vibration.
   1. A vibrating device used for massage or sexual stimulation.
      They recommend a vibrator because it's a safe alternative to sex.
      Mmm. I'm sick of my Mighty Intruder vibrator with the flexible shaft and the textured head. 1988, Wendy Goldman, Judy Toll, Casual Sex?, spoken by Stacy (Lea Thompson)
   2. (historical) A device designed to electromechanically interrupt current flowing to the step-up transformer which was used to generate the high tension positive supply in old battery-operated (automotive) valve radios.
   3. A trembler, as of an electric bell.
   4. A vibrating reed for transmitting or receiving pulsating currents in a harmonic telegraph system.
   5. A device for vibrating the pen of a siphon recorder to diminish frictional resistance on the paper.
   6. An oscillator.
   7. An ink-distributing roller in a printing machine, having an additional vibratory motion.
   8. A vibrating reed in a musical instrument, especially a reed organ.
   9. (weaving) Any of various vibrating devices, such as one for slackening the warp as a shed opens.
   10. An attachment, usually pneumatic, in a moulding machine to shake the pattern loose.