Telegenic: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word combines 'tele-' from Greek, meaning 'far off', and '-genic', meaning 'producing' or 'generating'.
• It first entered the English language in the mid-20th century as television became popular.
• Initially associated with actors, its usage expanded to include anyone who appears well on screen.

Pop Culture

• Television shows often cast telegenic individuals to attract more viewers and create a visual appeal.
• Reality TV has popularized the term, as contestants are frequently judged on their telegenic qualities.
• Social media influencers are often described as telegenic, as they create video content to engage their audiences.

Psychology

• Research indicates that people perceive telegenic individuals as more trustworthy and likable.
• The 'halo effect' suggests that if someone is visually appealing, people might assume they possess other positive traits.
• There are societal pressures to appear telegenic, affecting how individuals present themselves in media.

Television History

• The rise of news broadcasting in the mid-20th century highlighted the importance of telegenicity in journalism.
• TV hosts and anchors are often trained to improve their telegenic presence, recognizing its impact on audience engagement.
• The era of 24-hour news channels emphasized the demand for telegenic reporters who could capture viewer attention quickly.

Fashion and Appearance

• Lighting, makeup, and wardrobe are critical in enhancing a person’s telegenic qualities for screen appearances.
• Beauty standards have evolved, with diverse representations becoming more celebrated in media, shifting what is considered telegenic.
• Telegenic individuals often collaborate with stylists to craft a visual identity that resonates with audiences.

At position #41,137, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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