downlink
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈdaʊnˌlɪŋk/
KK: /ˈdaʊnˌlɪŋk/
noun
Definition
A path used to send signals and data from a satellite or spacecraft to the Earth.
Example
The satellite's downlink allows us to receive important data from space.
Conversation
Did you hear about the latest satellite launch?
Yeah, I read they improved the downlink speed significantly.
That's awesome! Faster downlink means better data for everyone.
Exactly! I can't wait to see the new images they send back.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
transmission
channel
link
Antonyms
uplink
disconnection
interference
verb
Definition
To send data from a spacecraft or satellite to a receiving station on Earth.
Example
The satellite will downlink the images it captured during the mission.
Tense Forms
Past: downlinked
Past Participle: downlinked
Conversation
Did you hear about the new satellite launch?
Yeah, I heard it's going to downlink data to Earth every hour.
That's pretty cool! I wonder what kind of information it will send back.
Root Explanation
Downlink → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning down or lower) and "link" (from Old English "linc", meaning a connection or bond). The word "downlink" refers to a connection that transmits data from a satellite or other source down to a receiver on the ground.
Memory Tip
Think of a connection that sends information 'down' from above — 'down' means lower, and 'link' means connection.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.