Cables Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cables
[ˈkeɪbəlz ]
Definitions
electrical equipment
Cables are a group of wires, usually twisted or braided together, used to transmit electricity or data. They are essential components in electrical and data communication systems.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cables |
Commonly used to refer to electrical or electronic connectors that are thicker and often contain multiple wires inside an insulated cover. These are used in a wide range of applications including household appliances, networking, and audio-visual systems.
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| wires |
Generally used to describe single strands of metal or groups of strands twisted together, often without outer insulation. Wires are usually used in more technical or industrial contexts such as construction, electronics, and internal circuitry.
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| cords |
Typically used to describe flexible electrical extensions or connectors, often associated with consumer electronics and household items. Cords are generally more flexible and can be found with everyday items like appliances or chargers.
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| leads |
More commonly used in British English to describe electrical connectors or cables. Leads can refer to both power and audio connections.
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Examples of usage
- Copper cables are commonly used for transmitting electricity.
- The fiber optic cables are used for high-speed data transmission.
telecommunication
In the field of telecommunication, cables refer to underground or underwater fiber optic or copper wire connections used to transmit phone, internet, and television signals over long distances.
Synonyms
communication cables, telecommunication lines.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cables |
General term for thick, strong wires that can be used for various purposes such as electrical wiring, holding structures together, or lifting heavy loads.
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| telecommunication lines |
Refers to the infrastructure or systems used for long-distance communication, including both cables and wireless technology.
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| communication cables |
Specific type of cables used to transmit data and signals for communication purposes, including internet, telephone, and TV.
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Examples of usage
- The transatlantic cables are crucial for international communication.
- The internet cables connect continents and enable global connectivity.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- Fiber optic cables, made of glass or plastic, send data as light, leading to faster internet connections compared to traditional copper cables.
- The invention of the telegraph in the 1830s marked a pivotal moment for cables, allowing for long-distance communication over metal wires.
- In modern homes, HDMI cables transmit high-definition video and audio, simplifying connections between devices like TVs and gaming consoles.
Pop Culture
- In the movie 'The Matrix', cables are symbolic of control, showing how humans are connected to machines in a virtual reality.
- The phrase 'Cut the cord' became famous with the rise of streaming services, referring to disconnecting traditional cable television.
- Music streaming technology has evolved through various cables, with the classic headphone jack once being the standard for connecting devices to music.
Environmental Impact
- Many old cables contain materials which can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly, leading to recycling initiatives.
- In some regions, abandoned cables on the ocean floor can harm marine life by entangling species and affecting seabed ecosystems.
- Efforts are being made to develop biodegradable cables that reduce environmental footprint while maintaining functionality.
History
- The first transatlantic cable was laid in 1858, allowing messages to be sent between North America and Europe in minutes instead of weeks.
- Throughout World War II, communication cables were crucial for military operations, helping coordinate efforts across the globe.
- In the late 19th century, the introduction of electric streetcars depended heavily on well-designed cable systems to supply power efficiently.
Origin of 'cables'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cable' comes from the Latin 'capulum', meaning a 'rope' or 'strap', reflecting the function of cables being thin but strong.
- Initially used in nautical contexts, referring to thick ropes used to anchor ships, the term evolved to encompass electrical and communication uses.
- Old English used the word 'ceap' to refer to purchases, connecting to how cables are often traded goods in markets.
The word 'cables' originated from the Latin word 'capulum', which means a rope or cord for binding. Over time, the term evolved to refer to a group of wires twisted or braided together. Cables have been used for centuries in various forms for transmitting signals and power, with advancements in technology leading to the development of fiber optic cables for high-speed data transmission.