slave device

[/sleɪv dɪˈvaɪs/]
nounpl: slave devices
dispositivo escravo
1. In computing and electronics, a peripheral device that is controlled by and depends on a master device for operation and synchronization
The printer functions as a slave device connected to the main computer.
A impressora funciona como um dispositivo escravo conectado ao computador principal.
2. In industrial automation, equipment that receives commands from a master controller
The robotic arm operates as a slave device responding to instructions from the master control system.
O braço robótico funciona como um dispositivo escravo respondendo às instruções do sistema de controle mestre.
This is technical jargon used in computing, electronics, and industrial automation. The master-slave terminology originated in electronics and has been standard for decades. However, contemporary usage is gradually shifting toward alternative terminology such as 'primary-secondary' or 'master-follower' in some tech companies and communities to move away from slavery-associated terminology. Both the original and new terms remain in use depending on context and organizational preferences.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dependent devicesubordinate devicecontrolled devicesecondary device
Antonyms / Antônimos
master deviceprimary deviceindependent device

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
dispositivo escravo
standard technical term used in computing and electronics contexts
Portugal
dispositivo subordinado / dispositivo escravo
both terms used; increasing preference for 'subordinado' in modern contexts
Technical English (USA/UK)
slave device
standard terminology, though some organizations adopting 'secondary device' or 'follower device' to avoid historical slavery terminology

Related Words

master devicemaster-slave architectureperipheralcontrollersynchronization

Related Idioms & Phrases

master-slave relationship
master-slave protocol
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →