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Telepathy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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telepathy

[tษชหˆlษ›pษ™ฮธi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

communication

The supposed communication of thoughts or ideas by means other than the known senses.

Synonyms

mental communication, mind reading, thought transference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
telepathy

Use 'telepathy' when referring to a form of communication where thoughts or feelings are transmitted between people without speaking or using any known sensory channels.

  • They claimed to communicate through telepathy.
  • The scientist was studying telepathy to understand its potential.
mind reading

Use 'mind reading' to describe the ability to know another personโ€™s thoughts. It often has a sensational or fictional connotation.

  • She had an uncanny ability for mind reading.
  • In many science fiction stories, characters have the power of mind reading.
mental communication

Use 'mental communication' to describe a broader concept of exchanging information or thoughts directly between minds, not necessarily limited to psychic phenomena.

  • They shared a deep mental communication, understanding each other's thoughts without words.
  • Mental communication between twins is often described in stories.
thought transference

Use 'thought transference' in formal or scientific discussions about the process of transferring thoughts or feelings from one person to another without verbal communication.

  • The researchers conducted experiments on thought transference.
  • Some people believe in thought transference as a form of psychic ability.

Examples of usage

  • Many people believe in the power of telepathy to connect with others on a deeper level.
  • She claimed to have a telepathy connection with her twin sister.
  • The concept of telepathy has been a popular topic in science fiction literature.
  • Scientists have not been able to provide concrete evidence for the existence of telepathy.
  • Telepathy remains a controversial and debated phenomenon in the scientific community.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Current scientific understanding suggests that there is no evidence supporting the existence of telepathy, as thoughts are biologically produced by the brain.
  • Some studies explore brain-to-brain communication through technology, hinting at early forms of thought transfer via devices.
  • Quantum entanglement has been proposed as a metaphorical explanation for instantaneous connections, though it's not formally linked to telepathy.

Pop Culture

  • Telepathy is a popular theme in books and movies, such as 'X-Men' where characters like Professor X use it to read minds.
  • In the 'Star Trek' series, Vulcans often communicate using telepathy, showcasing its role in alien cultures.
  • The phenomenon is often linked with psychic abilities, leading to a considerable number of reality TV shows exploring the supernatural.

Psychology

  • Psychologists study people's intuitive understanding of each other's emotions, which some may interpret as a form of telepathy.
  • Research into non-verbal communication often highlights how humans can 'sense' feelings without explicit signals, blurring the line with telepathic concepts.
  • Suggestion and expectation play a big role in the belief in telepathy, where people are more likely to perceive connections when they anticipate them.

Literature

  • Many classic literary works, including those from the Gothic genre, explore themes of mind-reading and unspoken connections between characters.
  • Authors like Stephen King have included telepathy as a crucial theme in works like 'Carrie' and 'The Dead Zone,' enhancing the horror element.
  • Telepathy often serves as a device to explore deeper emotional or psychological ties between characters in narrative fiction.

Origin of 'telepathy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek roots 'tele' meaning 'distant' and 'pathos' meaning 'feeling' or 'suffering.'
  • It was first coined by the American psychologist Joseph B. Rhine in the early 20th century.
  • Despite its origins in psychology, it is often used in science fiction and paranormal discussions.

The word telepathy originated in the late 19th century from the Greek words 'tele' meaning distant and 'pathos' meaning feeling or perception. It was first introduced by the classical scholar Frederic W.H. Myers in 1882. The concept of telepathy has fascinated people for centuries and has been a common theme in folklore, mythology, and popular culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,450, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.