broadcast
BRAWD-kast
/ˈbrɔːdkæst/
To transmit (a program or information) by radio or television; to scatter widely.
Implies a wide, often public, dissemination of information or entertainment, typically via electromagnetic waves.
The story behind the word. The word 'broadcast' literally means 'to cast or scatter widely,' much like a farmer scattering seeds across a field. It entered the English language from Old English 'brād' (broad) and 'castan' (to throw). When radio technology emerged, this vivid image of widely scattering signals made 'broadcast' the perfect term for transmitting sounds over the airwaves.
Word relationships
- transmit: More technical, focusing on the sending of signals.
- disseminate: Broader, refers to spreading information, not necessarily via media.
- receive: The opposite action of getting the transmission.
- withhold: To keep information private rather than spread it.
Commonly confused with
- telecast: Specifically refers to television broadcasts, while 'broadcast' can apply to both radio and TV.
Word family
- broadcaster (noun): A person or organization that broadcasts.
- broadcasting (noun): The act or business of transmitting programs.
Collocations
- live broadcast
- news broadcast
- broadcast message
- broadcast signal
Idioms & expressions
- broadcast far and wide
Example sentences
- "The local radio station decided to broadcast the town hall meeting live, reaching thousands of listeners." Describing a radio station's reach.
- "The news was broadcast across all major networks, causing a stir among the populace." Referring to a public announcement.
Memory hook
Think of a 'broad cast' net, catching many listeners across a wide area. Broad Cast Net
When not to use
Avoid using 'broadcast' for private, one-to-one communications or for information shared within a very small, closed group.
Fun facts
- Before its use in radio, 'broadcast' was primarily an agricultural term for sowing seeds widely.
Explore more words
Transmit, Communicate, disseminate, syndicated, audience, transcribe
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