Cable

Definition

Cable is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a thick, strong rope made of wires or fibers twisted together, often used to transmit electricity or signals. It can also refer to a television service provided via cable or a communication sent through telegraph or telephone. As a verb, it means to fasten with a cable or to send a message by cable, especially telegraphically.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkeɪbəl/
• Respelling: KAY-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkeɪbəl/
• Respelling: KAY-buhl

The pronunciation of "cable" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "cable" originates from the Old French "cable," which was derived from the Latin "capulum," meaning "rope" or "halter." It entered Middle English with meanings related to strong, thick rope, especially for mooring ships.

Derivatives

• Cabling (noun)
• Cablegram (noun)
• Cableway (noun)
• Cablecast (verb)
• Cabler (noun)

Synonyms

• Wire
• Rope
• Conduit

Antonyms

• Disconnect
• Unfasten
• Separate

Usage

The term "cable" is widely used in electrical, telecommunications, and media contexts, as in "The cable connects the computer to the power source." It is also used in the context of television, as in "They subscribed to cable TV."

Related Terms

• Conduit: A channel or pipe for carrying electrical wires or cables.
• Telegraph: A system for transmitting messages over long distances by coded signals.
• Fiber optics: Technology using thin fibers of glass or plastic to transmit data as light signals.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A thick, strong rope of wire or fiber: Used for mooring, pulling, or transmitting electricity or communications.
  • Example: "They installed a new cable to carry high-voltage electricity."
• A television service delivered via cable lines: Refers to subscription-based television received through cable networks.
  • Example: "The family watches several shows on cable TV."
• A telegraph or telegram message: Used to describe messages sent over long distances through telecommunication networks.
  • Example: "He received a cable with important news from overseas."

Verb

• To fasten or connect with a cable: Often used to describe securing an object or structure.
  • Example: "They cabled the load to ensure stability during transport."
• To send a message by telegraph: Refers to transmitting messages via telecommunication methods.
  • Example: "She cabled her family to inform them of her arrival."