Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Operated and guided by radio signals: Describes a device, vehicle, or toy that is controlled from a distance using radio waves, without any physical connection.

Usage

• The term "radio-controlled" is used attributively, meaning it typically comes before a noun to describe it.
• It describes the method of control for the object. The object itself does not generate the radio signals; it receives and responds to them from a separate transmitter held by an operator.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • He spent the afternoon flying his radio-controlled helicopter in the park.
  • The military uses radio-controlled drones for surveillance.
  • It's a sophisticated radio-controlled car with realistic engine sounds.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In engineering and hobbyist communities, "radio-controlled" (often abbreviated as R/C or RC) specifies a precise control system involving a transmitter, receiver, servos, and sometimes multiple channels for different functions (e.g., throttle, steering, auxiliary lights).
  • For this model, you need a 2.4GHz radio-controlled system with at least three channels.

Variants and Related Words

• Remote-controlled (adj): A broader term that can include control via radio, infrared, or other wireless signals. "Radio-controlled" is a specific type of remote control.
  • While many toys are remote-controlled, true hobbyist models are usually radio-controlled for greater range and precision.
• RC (adj/noun): A common abbreviation.
  • He's really into RC planes. (noun)
  • It's an RC boat. (adjective)

Synonyms

• Wirelessly controlled: Emphasizes the lack of wires but is less specific about the radio method.
• Remotely piloted: Often used for larger vehicles like drones or aircraft.

Antonyms

• Manual: Operated by direct human physical interaction.
• Tethered: Connected and controlled by a physical wire or cable.
• Autonomous: Operating independently based on pre-programmed instructions or AI, without real-time human control.

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Radio-controlled aircraft: A common compound term in aviation hobbies.
• Radio-controlled model: A general term for scale models operated by radio.

Adjective

1. operated and guided by radio
   • a radio-controlled airplane