Telegraph: meaning, definitions and examples

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telegraph

 

[ ˈtelɪɡrɑːf ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

news

A system for transmitting messages from a distance along a wire, especially one creating signals by making and breaking an electrical connection.

Synonyms

cable, telegram, wire

Examples of usage

  • He received a message via telegraph.
  • The telegraph allowed for communication across long distances.
Context #2 | Noun

historical

An apparatus or process for communication at a distance by coded signals.

Synonyms

communication device, signal transmitter, telecommunication

Examples of usage

  • The telegraph revolutionized long-distance communication.
  • Telegraphs were used extensively in the 19th century.
Context #3 | Verb

communication

Send (a message) by telegraph.

Synonyms

relay, send, transmit

Examples of usage

  • He telegraphed the news to his family.
  • The information was telegraphed to headquarters.

Translations

Translations of the word "telegraph" in other languages:

🇵🇹 telégrafo

🇮🇳 टेलीग्राफ़

🇩🇪 Telegraf

🇮🇩 telegraf

🇺🇦 телеграф

🇵🇱 telegraf

🇯🇵 電報 (でんぽう)

🇫🇷 télégraphe

🇪🇸 telégrafo

🇹🇷 telgraf

🇰🇷 전신 (jeonsin)

🇸🇦 تلغراف

🇨🇿 telegraf

🇸🇰 telegraf

🇨🇳 电报 (diànbào)

🇸🇮 telegraf

🇮🇸 símskeyti

🇰🇿 телеграф

🇬🇪 ტელეგრაფი

🇦🇿 teleqraf

🇲🇽 telégrafo

Word origin

The word 'telegraph' originated from the Greek words 'tele,' meaning 'distant,' and 'grapho,' meaning 'write.' The first practical telegraph was developed in the early 19th century, revolutionizing long-distance communication. It played a crucial role in the transmission of news, military orders, and personal messages. The telegraph network expanded rapidly across continents, connecting people in ways previously unimaginable. With the invention of the telephone and later digital communication technologies, the use of telegraphs declined, but they remain a symbol of an era when information traveled at the speed of electricity.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,113 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.