parking meter

noun

1. a mechanical device for registering and collecting payment for the length of time that a vehicle occupies a parking space, consisting typically of a timer, actuated by a coin that a driver deposits upon parking, set in a headpiece mounted on a pole.

parking meter

noun

1. a timing device, usually coin-operated, that indicates how long a vehicle may be left parked

Word History and Origins

Origin of parking meter¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

The city may also raise parking meter fees and extend the meters’ hours of operation.

From Los Angeles Times

They’re not advocating for one company to have a monopoly on Southern California’s parking meters or for a law that restricts competition, but they say a more uniform system is possible.

From Los Angeles Times

But ever since Tuesday, the only long line was the stretch of unused parking meters that formed a perimeter around the brewery.

From Los Angeles Times

In addition, the five-member panel recommended a hike in parking meter fees, which is expected to generate $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year.

From Los Angeles Times

Contactless payment hotspots - like parking meters and restaurant menus - are common targets of criminals who stick their own QR codes on signage.

From BBC