Antenna Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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antenna
[ænˈtɛnə ]
Definitions
communication
A rod, wire, or other device used to transmit or receive radio or television signals.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antenna |
Commonly used in both everyday language and technical fields to refer to a device that receives or transmits radio waves.
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| aerial |
Frequently used in British English for the same device as 'antenna,' and can also refer to something related to the air or flying.
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| receiver |
Refers to a device that receives signals, especially in radio, television, or telecommunications. It can also mean a person who receives something.
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Examples of usage
- The antenna on the roof of the house picked up the local radio stations.
- She adjusted the antenna on her TV to get a clearer picture.
- The car's antenna was broken, so the radio reception was poor.
biology
A pair of long, thin sensory appendages on the heads of insects, crustaceans, and some other arthropods, used for feeling and detecting motion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antenna |
Used in a biological context to refer to sensory appendages on the heads of insects and some other arthropods.
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| feelers |
Generally used in an informal or metaphorical sense, often referring to preliminary or tentative efforts to gauge opinions or reactions, or the sensory organs of certain animals.
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| whiskers |
Primarily used to refer to the long, stiff hairs around the mouths of animals such as cats, which help them sense their environment.
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Examples of usage
- The butterfly's antenna helped it sense the presence of nectar.
- The crab's antenna waved in the water, searching for food.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Antennas can be found in various forms, like the tall towers that catch radio waves, or the small devices on smartphones.
- The efficiency of an antenna can be affected by its shape, size, and the materials used to make it.
Technology
- Wireless communication, including Wi-Fi and cellular networks, relies on multiple antennas to connect devices over long distances.
- 5G technology uses advanced antenna systems called Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) to improve data transmission.
Pop Culture
- In the world of comic books, characters often have antennas to signify superhuman abilities or advanced technology, symbolizing enhanced communication.
- The symbol of an antenna can evoke nostalgia for older TV shows, where antennas were a common household object.
Art
- Antennas have inspired artists and designers to create innovative sculptures and installations that explore themes of communication and connection.
- In modern architecture, antennas often blend into the design of buildings, making them both functional and visually appealing.
Origin of 'antenna'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'antenna', which means 'sail yard', reflecting the structure's long and extended shape.
- Originally, the word referred specifically to the sensory appendages of insects before being adapted for electronic devices.
The word 'antenna' originated in Latin, where it referred to the sail yard on a ship. In the late 17th century, it started being used to describe the sensory appendages of insects. The modern use of 'antenna' to refer to a device for transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves emerged in the early 20th century with the development of radio technology.