flash drive

noun

: a data storage device that uses flash memory
specifically : a small rectangular device that is designed to be plugged directly into a USB port on a computer and is often used for transferring files from one computer to another

called also thumb drive

Examples of flash drive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Art supplies, backpacks, stationery, educational organization tools like binders and file folders, lunch boxes, music instruments, flash drives and more count as school supplies. — Zuri Primos july 25, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026 Items sought include backpacks, notebooks, loose-leaf paper, pencils, markers, crayons, scissors, flash drives, pens, glue sticks and gift cards to be used to buy supplies, according to a news release. — Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026 However, before the group reconvenes, Paula takes some time to dig into the files in the flash drive that Ashley dropped at the police station. — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 8 July 2026 In February, Lavon hid a USB flash drive wrapped in a 50 shekel note (approx. — Oren Liebermann, CNN Money, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for flash drive

Word History

First Known Use

1992, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of flash drive was in 1992

Rhymes for flash drive

See All Rhymes for flash drive

Browse Nearby Words

flash defilade
flash drive
flash-dry
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flash drive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flash%20drive. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

flash drive

noun
: a data storage device that uses flash memory
specifically : a small rectangular device that is designed to be plugged into a USB port on a computer and is often used for transferring files from one computer to another

called also jump drive, thumb drive

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