phaser

/ˈfeɪzɚ/

Etymology

* (science fiction): For the fictional weapon coined for Star Trek: originally a "ph(oton ma)ser," later changed canonically to a "phas(ed)-e(nergy) r(ectifier)" (of "nadions", not photons). * (phase modulation): phase + -er

noun

  1. An electronic device that produces special effects on the sound produced by an electric guitar etc.
  2. Fictional energy weapon, with multiple settings for degree of intensity, from the television series Star Trek (1966–69).“Captain James Kirk: "Set your phaser on one quarter. I'll leave mine on stun."”
  3. A phase modulator

verb

  1. To shoot with a phaser weapon.