cord-cutting
KORD-kut-ing
/ˈkɔːdˌkʌt.ɪŋ/
The practice of canceling traditional cable or satellite television subscriptions in favor of internet streaming services.
Specifically describes consumer shifts away from legacy paid television infrastructure toward digital streaming choices.
The story behind the word. Emerging around 2007, this metaphor referred to severing the physical coaxial cable line feeding into home set-top boxes. It gained popularity as high-speed internet enabled Netflix and Hulu to compete directly with cable providers.
Word relationships
- cable cancellation: 'Cable cancellation' is a direct description, whereas 'cord-cutting' functions as a cultural and industry term.
- cable adoption: Subscribing to traditional multi-channel cable television packages.
Commonly confused with
- cord-shaver: A 'cord-shaver' reduces cable tiers to cheaper packages, while a 'cord-cutter' cancels cable television entirely.
Word family
- cord-cutter (noun): A consumer who gives up traditional television cable services.
Collocations
- cord-cutting trend
- accelerate cord-cutting
- cord-cutting phenomenon
Example sentences
- "Accelerating cord-cutting has forced traditional cable companies to launch their own streaming apps." Business report on television networks
- "By embracing cord-cutting, our family reduced monthly utility and entertainment expenses significantly." Household budgeting discussion
Memory hook
Literally CUTting the physical cable CORD to move online. Severing legacy cable connections.
When not to use
Do not use to describe physical cutting of electrical wires or power cords.
Fun facts
- In 2020 alone, major American cable providers lost over 5 million subscribers due to cord-cutting.
Related words
Explore more words
streaming, telecast, livestream, offline, piracy, Connectivity
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