Definition

A facility that receives and processes signals, such as television broadcasts, before sending them out to a local area.

Example

The headend is crucial for ensuring that all cable channels are available to subscribers.

Conversation

Have you ever visited a cable TV headend facility?

No, I haven't. What's it like?

It's pretty interesting; they control all the signals from satellites there.

That sounds cool! I'd love to see how they manage everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Headend is formed from "head" (from Old English "heafod", meaning the upper part or leader) and "end" (from Old English "endian", meaning to finish or limit). The term "headend" refers to the leading or upper part of a system, often used in telecommunications to denote the point where signals are received and processed.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'head' as the top or leader of something, and 'end' as the limit or point. This helps you remember that 'headend' refers to the leading point in a system.

Visually Confused Words