Television Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📺
television
[ˈtɛlɪˌvɪʒ(ə)n ]
Definition
watching entertainment programs
A device used for receiving television signals and displaying them on a screen. Televisions are commonly used for watching news, movies, sports, and other entertainment programs.
Synonyms
boob tube, telescreen, tv.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| television |
Commonly used in formal and neutral contexts to refer to the medium or the device. Suitable for professional, educational, or general communication.
|
| tv |
Casual and informal term used frequently in everyday conversation to refer to the device or medium.
|
| telescreen |
Typically used in a dystopian or science fiction context. It often refers to a device that not only displays content but also surveils viewers, as popularized by George Orwell's novel '1984'.
|
| boob tube |
A colloquial and somewhat outdated term with a slightly negative connotation, often implying that the viewer is wasting time or that the content is of low quality.
|
Examples of usage
- I like to watch the news on television every evening.
- She enjoys watching movies on television with her family.
- The football game will be broadcast on television this weekend.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The earliest television broadcasts began in the late 1920s, revolutionizing how people consumed information and entertainment.
- Color television was first introduced to the public in the 1950s, greatly enhancing the viewing experience.
Cultural Impact
- Television has influenced popular culture significantly, shaping trends, fashion, and social norms through its wide reach.
- Certain TV shows have sparked major social movements and discussions, reflecting and affecting societal change.
Technology
- Initially, televisions used cathode ray tubes; now, LCD, LED, and OLED technologies create sharper, more energy-efficient screens.
- Smart TVs have transformed the experience, allowing users to connect to the internet and stream content from various platforms.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that excessive TV watching can lead to decreased physical activity and increased feelings of loneliness.
- Conversely, certain programs can positively impact viewers' emotions, providing comfort and a sense of community.
Origin of 'television'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining the Greek 'tele', meaning 'far', and the Latin 'visio', meaning 'sight'.
- The term was first coined in the early 1900s, but the first successful demonstration of television came much later in 1927.
The word 'television' is a combination of the Greek prefix 'tele-' (meaning 'far') and the Latin word 'visio' (meaning 'sight'). The concept of television as a medium for transmitting moving images and sound over a distance was first demonstrated in the late 19th century. The development of television technology has evolved significantly over the years, leading to the widespread use of televisions in households around the world.
See also: envision, visionaries, visionary, visionless, visions.