Wire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wire

[waɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electrical

A metal thread for conducting electricity.

Examples of usage

  • The wire was used to connect the light fixture to the electrical outlet.
  • She wrapped the exposed wire with electrical tape.
  • The wire had been chewed through by the rodent.
  • The wire had frayed at the end, exposing the copper inside.
  • The wire was carefully coiled to prevent tangling.
Context #2 | Verb

communication

To send a message or information using a telecommunications system.

Examples of usage

  • He wired the money to his brother.
  • She wired the news to headquarters.
  • They wired the report to the main office.
  • I'll wire you the details as soon as I can.
  • The company wired the instructions to all employees.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • The invention of the telegraph in the 19th century relied heavily on wires to transmit messages over long distances.
  • Modern electronics use a variety of wires, including copper and fiber optic, to transmit signals and power.
  • Wireless technology, ironically, still depends on wired components for infrastructure, highlighting the evolution of communication.

Science

  • Wires facilitate the flow of electricity by allowing electrons to travel from one point to another.
  • Conductors, like copper and aluminum, are commonly used in wires because they allow electricity to flow easily.
  • Heat generated in wires can lead to resistance, explained by Ohm's Law, which is fundamental in electrical engineering.

Art

  • Wire art is a popular medium where artists create sculptures or jewelry using bending and twisting techniques.
  • Some musicians use wire in their instruments, such as guitar strings or the frame of certain percussion instruments.
  • Wire has been used historically in architecture, such as in the construction of tension bridges.

Pop Culture

  • Wires are often depicted in movies as essential tools for spies, secretly transmitting information.
  • The phrase 'out of the wire' in military literature refers to being outside of the safety of base networks, highlighting the wire's importance in communication.
  • In the popular series 'The Wire', the term is a metaphor for the entanglement and connection between various societal issues.

Origin of 'wire'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'wire' comes from the Old English term 'wir', meaning 'metal thread'.
  • It was first used in the 14th century to describe metal strands or threads.
  • In earlier English, 'wir' also referred to weaving, connecting to how wire can tie things together.

The word 'wire' originated from Old English 'wir', meaning metal drawn out into a thread. It has been used in English since the 8th century to refer to metal thread or filament. Over time, the word expanded to include electrical conducting wire and communication wire. The use of wire has become essential in modern technology and daily life, enabling the transmission of electricity and information over long distances.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,114, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.