Airwaves: meaning, definitions and examples

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airwaves

 

[ ˈɛːweɪvz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

radio broadcast

Airwaves refer to the medium through which radio signals travel. They are the radio frequencies used for broadcasting signals from one point to another.

Synonyms

broadcast frequencies, radiowaves.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
airwaves

This term is often used to refer to the medium through which radio and television signals are transmitted. It is commonly used in a colloquial sense.

  • The new song is all over the airwaves
  • The debate was heated and ruled the airwaves for days
radiowaves

This term is generally used in scientific and technical contexts to refer to the electromagnetic waves used for various forms of wireless communication.

  • Radiowaves are utilized in transmitting data over long distances
  • Scientists are studying the effects of radiowaves on the environment
broadcast frequencies

This term is more technical and specific, often used in engineering or telecommunications contexts. It refers to specific frequencies allocated for transmitting radio or TV signals.

  • The technicians were adjusting the broadcast frequencies to improve signal clarity
  • Government regulations strictly control broadcast frequencies

Examples of usage

  • The new radio station is now broadcasting on the airwaves.
  • The popular show was heard on the airwaves across the country.
Context #2 | Noun

public attention or reception

Airwaves can also refer to the public attention or reception given to a specific topic, event, or communication. It signifies the reach and impact of a message or content.

Synonyms

media coverage, public attention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
airwaves

See above context.

public attention

Best used when you want to emphasize the focus or interest of the general public on a particular matter. Can be used to describe the impact of media or events on people’s interest.

  • The charity event drew a lot of public attention.
  • The issue of climate change is finally getting the public attention it deserves.
media coverage

Appropriate when referring to the way events, news, or announcements are presented by various media outlets. Used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The scandal received extensive media coverage.
  • The new product launch got a lot of media coverage.

Examples of usage

  • The controversial speech dominated the airwaves for days.
  • The campaign aimed to capture the airwaves and gain public support.

Translations

Translations of the word "airwaves" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondas de rádio

🇮🇳 हवा की लहरें

🇩🇪 Radiowellen

🇮🇩 gelombang udara

🇺🇦 повітряні хвилі

🇵🇱 fale radiowe

🇯🇵 電波

🇫🇷 ondes radio

🇪🇸 ondas de radio

🇹🇷 radyo dalgaları

🇰🇷 전파

🇸🇦 موجات الراديو

🇨🇿 rádiové vlny

🇸🇰 rádiové vlny

🇨🇳 电波

🇸🇮 radijski valovi

🇮🇸 útvarpsbylgjur

🇰🇿 радиотолқындар

🇬🇪 რადიოტალღები

🇦🇿 radio dalğaları

🇲🇽 ondas de radio

Etymology

The term 'airwaves' originated in the early 20th century with the development of radio technology. It stems from the concept of radio signals traveling through the air to transmit messages and broadcasts. Over time, 'airwaves' has evolved to encompass not just radio frequencies but also the broader idea of public attention and communication reach in the media landscape.

See also: wave, wavelength, wavelet, wavelike, wavenumber, waver, wavering, wavy.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,835, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.