airwave

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A radio wave used for broadcasting; usually plural 'airwaves' meaning radio and television signals or the media that use them.

   Grammar: Often used in the plural: 'the airwaves'. Takes 'the' when referring to broadcasting in general.

   Patterns

   • the airwaves
   • on the airwaves
   • over the airwaves

   The song became a hit after it was played on the airwaves.

   The president took to the airwaves to explain the new law.

   Their message reached millions over the airwaves.

2. 2nouncountabletechnical

   A single electromagnetic wave that carries radio or television signals through the air.

   Grammar: Technical use; usually in the plural in scientific contexts.

   Patterns

   • airwave transmission
   • airwave frequency

   Engineers measured the airwave strength in different locations.

   The device sends data using airwaves instead of cables.

Word forms

Common combinations

on the airwaves

The interview will be on the airwaves tonight.

take to the airwaves

The coach took to the airwaves to defend his team.

over the airwaves

The announcement was broadcast over the airwaves.

flood the airwaves

Political ads flooded the airwaves before the election.

Synonyms and how they differ

radio wave

The technical term for the physical wave; 'airwave' is less common and often used figuratively for broadcasting.

broadcast

Refers to the program or act of sending signals, not the waves themselves.

Word family

airwaves noun

Plural form, meaning the medium of radio and television broadcasting.

Commonly confused: airwave or airway?

Practice

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