reception
ri-SEP-shuhn
/rɪˈsɛpʃən/
The action or process of receiving something, especially signals; the quality of the signals received.
In broadcasting, it refers to how well a radio or TV signal is picked up, often described as 'good' or 'poor'.
The story behind the word. The word 'reception' comes from the Latin verb 'recipere,' meaning 'to take back' or 'to receive.' This is formed from 're-' (back) and 'capere' (to take). In English, it developed various meanings related to receiving, including the act of welcoming guests and, significantly for our context, the act of receiving electromagnetic signals.
Word relationships
- pickup: More informal, often used for the ability of a device to receive signals.
- transmission: The act of sending, opposite of receiving.
Word family
- receive (verb): To take or get something that has been sent or given.
- recipient (noun): A person who receives something.
Collocations
- good reception
- poor reception
- digital reception
- mobile reception
Example sentences
- "The old antenna provided excellent reception, even for distant radio stations." Describing signal quality.
- "The new ambassador received a warm reception from the local community." Referring to a welcome.
Memory hook
Good 'reception' means you 'receive' the signal clearly. Receive Clearly
When not to use
While 'reception' also means a formal social gathering, in the context of broadcasting, it refers exclusively to the quality of a received signal. Do not confuse the two meanings.
Fun facts
- The term 'reception' is also used in hotels to refer to the front desk where guests are received.
Related words
Explore more words
receptive, broadcast, audience, attuned, hospitality, perception
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