operating without a wire connection to the companion communicating unit; -- of telephones and other devices using e.g. radio or infrared signals to allow communication between devices without a direct wire link; as, cordless telephones have a very restricted range compared with cellular phones. [PJC]
using a battery as a source of power; -- of tools which usually use line current for power; as, cordless electric drills are very convenient for use outdoors; cordless razors make shaving while travelling easy. [PJC]
cordless, adj. (of an electrical appliance, telephone, etc.) working from an internal source of energy etc. (esp. a battery) and without a connection to a mains supply or central unit.