A hypothetical weapon (often a bomb) programmed to automatically be used in response to certain attacks, usually with very dire consequences (such as the annihilation of the world).

(computing) Any of many hardware devices that provide input (from a user or elsewhere) to a computer.

(literature) An identifiable rule of thumb, convention, or structure that is employed in literature and storytelling.

(computer hardware) A piece of hardware whose main function is to store data.

An element introduced into a story, film, etc. to advance its plot.

Alternative form of Brannock device

A hand tool of a particular kind, used to measure a foot's length, heel-to-ball length, and width.

A phrase (set phrase or created phrase) that uses reduplication, onomatopoeia, or other phonetic markers that increase memorability and “musicality” (making rhetoric pleasing or entertaining).

(computing, programming) A particular optimized implementation of a serial copy that uses an unusual C-language construct for loop unwinding.

(narratology) An introductory or main narrative that provides a framework for a more emphasized second narrative or for a set of shorter stories.