Fax Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fax
[fæks ]
Definitions
communication technology
A fax, or facsimile, is a technology that allows for the transmission of documents over a telephone line. It typically involves scanning a document, converting it into a series of electronic signals, and then sending it to a receiving machine that prints out the document on paper. Faxes were widely used in business settings before the advent of email and digital communication. Despite this decline, fax machines are still utilized in certain industries that require secure document transmission.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Please send the contract via fax.
- I received a fax message this morning.
- Can you fax me the proposal by noon?
- The doctor sent a fax with my prescription.
to send documents
To fax means to send a document using a fax machine. This involves placing the document in the machine and dialing the recipient's fax number. The machine then transmits the document electronically, allowing the recipient to receive a printed copy of it. While emailing has largely replaced this function, faxing is still prevalent in certain sectors due to legal and privacy considerations.
Synonyms
send by fax, telecopy.
Examples of usage
- I need to fax this letter urgently.
- Can you fax over the forms?
- She faxed her resume to the company.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'fax' comes from the word 'facsimile', meaning an exact copy.
- The first fax machine was invented in 1843 by Alexander Bain, long before the modern internet existed.
- Fax machines became popular in the 1980s and 1990s for businesses to send documents quickly.
Technology
- Fax machines use phone lines to transmit data, converting paper documents into digital signals.
- Modern technology allows faxing directly from computers and smartphones, eliminating the need for physical machines.
- Despite digital alternatives, faxing remains important in legal and medical fields due to its perceived security and reliability.
Cultural Impact
- In popular culture, fax machines are often depicted in movies as outdated technology used by quirky characters.
- The phrase 'I’ll send you a fax' has become a humorous way to signify outdated communication methods in the digital age.
- Many workplaces still maintain fax machines, reflecting a blend of traditional and modern communication practices.
Business and Communication
- Faxing allows for a paper trail, which is crucial for contracts and legal documents.
- The 'fax cover sheet' became a standard practice in offices to provide context before the document is read.
- Some countries still rely heavily on faxing for official communications, especially in sensitive sectors.
Origin of 'fax'
The term 'fax' is derived from the word 'facsimile', which comes from the Latin 'fac simile', meaning 'make similar'. The technology itself emerged in the early 19th century with the invention of the electrical telegraph, leading to various methods of transmitting written documents. The first commercial fax machine was developed in 1843 by Scottish inventor Alexander Bain. However, it wasn't until the 1980s and 1990s that fax machines became commonplace in offices worldwide, with improvements in technology making them more accessible. While their popularity has waned in the digital age, fax machines are still used in certain sectors, emphasizing the importance of secure document transmission.