Definition

Noun: 1. A television system that transmits signals via physical cables: A method of delivering television programming to consumers through coaxial or fiber-optic cables, as opposed to over-the-air broadcast signals. 2. The programming content delivered via such a system: The television channels and services received through a cable subscription.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to the system or service:
  • We switched from satellite to cable television for a more reliable connection.
  • The apartment building includes basic cable television in the monthly rent.
• Referring to the content:
  • Some shows are produced specifically for cable television.
  • The news channel is available on most cable television providers.

Advanced Usage

• "Cable television network": A company that provides programming via cable systems (e.g., HBO, CNN).
  • She works for a major cable television network.
• The term is often shortened informally to "cable" when the context is clear.
  • Is the game on network TV or cable?

Variants and Related Words

• Cable TV (noun): A common abbreviated form of "cable television."
• Cable (noun): A frequent informal shortening.
  • I cut the cable and now only use streaming services.
• Cable provider / cable company (noun): The business that supplies the cable television service.

Synonyms

• CATV (Community Antenna Television): The original technical term.
• Pay television / pay TV: Emphasizes the subscription model, though this can also include satellite.

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Broadcast television / over-the-air television: TV received via antenna from local stations.
• Satellite television: TV received via communication satellite.
• Streaming service / internet television: TV content delivered via the internet (e.g., Netflix, Hulu).

Noun

1. a television system that transmits over cables
2. television that is transmitted over cable directly to the receiver