Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to sound produced or transmitted by radio: Describes anything pertaining to the creation, transmission, or reception of sound via radio waves.
   • Characteristic of radio broadcasting techniques: Pertaining to the distinctive methods, styles, or qualities associated with radio production, especially experimental or artistic sound work.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The artist created a fascinating radiophonic piece using only sounds broadcast from old ham radios.
  • The course explores the history of radiophonic drama and its influence on modern podcasting.
  • They used radiophonic equipment to capture the distant signals.

Advanced Usage

• "Radiophonic workshop": A studio or collective dedicated to creating experimental sound and music for radio, often using electronic means.
  • The BBC's Radiophonic Workshop was famous for its innovative sound effects and theme music.

Variants and Related Words

• Radiophony (n): The art or technique of producing sound for radio.
  • His thesis focused on the development of radiophony in the 20th century.
• Radiotelephony (n): The technology for transmitting sound (speech) by radio.
  • Radiophonic is the adjectival form directly related to radiotelephony.

Synonyms

• Radio: (as an adjective, e.g., radio signals)
• Wireless: (archaic or technical term for radio transmission)

Notes on Meaning

This is a technical and somewhat specialized adjective. Its core meaning is tied directly to radiotelephony—the transmission of sound (specifically voice) via radio waves. It is often used in artistic or historical contexts related to radio production and sound art, rather than in everyday descriptions of common radio listening.

Adjective

1. relating to or by means of radiotelephony