dongle
UK /ˈdɒŋɡl̩/ · US /ˈdɑŋɡl̩/ noun
Forms dongles
- noun (computer hardware) Any small device that plugs into an electronic device, typically a computer, and alters its functionality. Common examples include wireless modems, digital media players, software copy protect devices, and adapters.
- noun (computer hardware) A hardware device used by a specific application for purposes of copy protection.
Etymology
Unknown. Likely a descendant of dangle, reflecting that electronic accessories such as computer peripherals often are plugged in via a flexible cable (although wirelessness is also often relevant). Claims that the word comes from a man named "Don Gall" were made up by an advertisement. First usage 1980-1985.
Sources: Wiktionary — from the Wiktionary entry “dongle”, CC BY-SA 4.0. Details