actuator

[ ak-choo-ey-ter ]

/ ˈæk tʃuˌeɪ tər /

a person or thing that actuates.

a servomechanism that supplies and transmits a measured amount of energy for the operation of another mechanism or system.

Origin of actuator

First recorded in 1860–65; actuate + -or²

actualize, actually, actuals, actuary, actuate, actuator, actus reus, acuate, acuff, acuity, aculeate

The "internal controller," the actuator of all spirits, according to the text: Who abiding in the soul, rules the soul within.

The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha |Madhava Acharya
He struggled with his vulcanized suit, trying to squeeze from under the actuator.

Tight Squeeze |Dean Charles Ing
When I put enough voltage across its terminals, the actuator clicked down through the core.

The Trouble with Telstar |John Berryman
The tape moved on unperturbedly, reminding him to inspect the actuator bearings and extension rods.

Tight Squeeze |Dean Charles Ing

Obviously, the actuator had smashed his transmitter, but left the receiver section intact.

Tight Squeeze |Dean Charles Ing