phaser

Definition

An electronic device that produces special effects on the sound produced by an electric guitar etc.

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

Example Sentences

• "Captain James Kirk: "Set your phaser on one quarter. I'll leave mine on stun.""
• "His oddly reserved nature stands out [...]. Whyte sets his phaser on stun, not kill."
• "A Bajoran rushed past with an armful of phaser rifles, another with a box of hand phasers."