Coin operated Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkoʊɪn ɒpəˈreɪtɪd/

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A coin-operated device or machine is one that requires a coin or other metal disc inserted to activate or function. Examples include vending machines, parking meters, and arcade games.

Examples

The coin-operated vending machine dispensed a bag of fresh peanuts.
The meter reading was increased, and now a coin-operated parking meter was required.
The video game machine in the arcade is coin-operated.

Synonyms

Pay-Per-Use
Manual

Antonyms

Automatic
Free

Etymology

The word “Coin Operated” is a compound term derived from the words “coin” and “operated.” It is first used in the early 20th century to describe machines that accept coins as a means of payment. Over time, the term has evolved to describe a wide range of devices that function on similar principles.

Usage Notes

When using the term “Coin Operated,” it is essential to note that it can be used in various contexts. For example, you can use it to describe a vending machine that dispenses snacks, a parking meter that charges by the hour, or an arcade game that requires a coin to play.

However, it’s worth noting that some machines, like those that require a token or a ticket, are not coin-operated. In such cases, using the term “Coin Operated” would be inaccurate.

Cultural References

The term “Coin Operated” has been referenced in popular culture, including in music and literature. For example, a 1960s song titled “Coin Operated Boy” by Dar Williams features lyrics about a vending machine.

Additionally, in the novel “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown, a character talks about a coin-operated vending machine that dispenses food.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

The term “Coin Operated” is not typically used in idiomatic expressions or phrases. However, you can use phrases like “put money in the slot” or “get a Coke for a buck” to convey the idea of a coin-operated device.

Related Words or Phrases

Some words related to “Coin Operated” include “vending,” “merchant,” and “machine.” These terms are often used interchangeably to describe devices that accept coins or other forms of payment.

Collocations

Coin-operated devices often come with a manual or instructions on how to use them. You can use collocations like “coin-operated and self-service” or “coin-operated and coin-counting” to describe these devices.

Frequency of Use

The term “Coin Operated” is relatively common in modern language. You can find it in contexts such as advertising, instruction manuals, and everyday conversations.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “Coin Operated” include:

Coin Operated is often confused with “Coin Operative,” which is not a word.
Another common misspelling is “Coin Operater,” which also does not exist as a word.

To avoid such errors, make sure to double-check your spelling when using the term “Coin Operated.”