time-delay switch
nounUK /ˈtaɪm dɪˌleɪ swɪtʃ/
US /ˈtaɪm dɪˌleɪ swɪtʃ/
A time-delay switch is a switch that waits a little while before it turns something on or off.
The time-delay switch keeps the bathroom light on for two minutes after you leave.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A device that postpones the start of a machine or process by a set interval.
The conveyor uses a time-delay switch so the belt starts after the warning bell.
3. A safety component that keeps power flowing briefly after shutdown to allow safe cooling.
The fan's time-delay switch runs for a minute after the motor stops.
4. An adjustable control for setting how long a light or appliance stays on.
He set the time-delay switch to ten seconds for the stairwell lamp.