Teleporter: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is commonly used in science fiction to describe a device or machine that allows instant travel from one place to another by dematerializing and then rematerializing a person or object. It is often used in a more general sense.

• The crew used the teleporter to beam aboard the alien spaceship.
• In the future, we might have teleporters to travel instantly around the world.

Though similar to 'teleporter', 'transporter' is a term popularized by the 'Star Trek' series, often used to describe the specific device used for beaming characters from one place to another. It can also be used more generally to refer to any device that moves people or goods.

• The transporter malfunctioned, leaving the crew stranded on the planet.
• With the invention of the transporter, shipping goods became instantaneous.

This term is also used primarily in science fiction but may have a slightly different connotation, often implying a portal or gateway that moves a person or object from one location to another instantly. It might be used for devices that have a different operational mechanism than a typical teleporter.

• The hero activated the translocator to escape from the villain's lair.
• Stepping through the translocator, she found herself on a distant planet.

This phrase is more formal and descriptive, often used in technical discussions or to emphasize the mechanism behind the technology. It is especially suitable in contexts where the technology is being explained or described in detail.

• The scientist unveiled a new teleportation device that could revolutionize travel.
• Exploring the intricacies of a teleportation device reveals how complex and fascinating this technology truly is.

Typically used in science fiction to describe a device that can instantly transport people or objects from one place to another. Its usage is broad and general.

• The scientist built a teleporter to travel to distant planets quickly.
• In the movie, the hero used a teleporter to infiltrate the enemy base.

Commonly used to describe a device that sends signals or data, rather than physical objects, and is often related to telecommunications. It might have a negative or confusing connotation if used for teleportation.

• The satellite's transmitter relayed the data back to the control center.
• They upgraded the radio transmitter to improve communication with the remote base.

Used mostly in older science fiction and conveys a sense of futuristic or almost archaic technology. It's less common in modern contexts.

• The alien ship had a beam machine that could transport anyone to their home planet.
• They stepped onto the platform, and the beam machine activated, sending them to the underground base.

A technical term often found in scientific literature or serious science fiction, emphasizing the physical process of breaking down and reassembling matter.

• The research team developed a matter transmitter to revolutionize the shipping industry.
• Using the matter transmitter, the professor demonstrated teleportation for the first time.

Used in futuristic or science fiction settings where a device instantly transports people or objects from one place to another.

• The scientist stepped into the teleporter and reappeared on the other side of the galaxy.
• They used a teleporter to escape from the enemy base.

Often found in fantasy stories or video games, describing a magical or technological gateway that connects two different locations, realms, or dimensions.

• The wizard cast a spell to open a portal to another world.
• She discovered a hidden portal in the forest that led to an enchanted kingdom.

Common in space-themed sci-fi, referring to a large structure that facilitates faster-than-light travel across space or between dimensions.

• The spaceship approached the warp gate to begin its journey to the distant star system.
• After the battle, they retreated through the warp gate to safety.

Typically used in science fiction, describing a designated area where people or objects stand to be teleported.

• Please stand on the teleportation pad to be transported to the space station.
• The crew gathered on the teleportation pad before their mission to Mars.