telegram
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈtɛlɪˌɡræm/
KK: /ˈtɛlɪˌɡræm/
noun
Definition
A written message sent over long distances using a system of wires and signals.
Example
She received a telegram announcing her promotion.
Conversation
Did you receive that telegram from Mark about the party?
No, I haven’t seen it yet. What did it say?
He mentioned the date and location, but I think he sent it late.
I hope he sends a reminder, or I might miss out!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
message
dispatch
note
Antonyms
silence
omission
neglect
transitive verb
Definition
To send a message using a telegraph system.
Example
She decided to telegram her family about the good news.
Tense Forms
Past: telegrammed
Past Participle: telegrammed
Conversation
Did you hear that Sarah had a baby?
Yeah, I did! I was going to telegram you about it.
That's exciting news! We should send her a gift.
Root Explanation
Telegram → It is formed from "tele-" (from Greek "tēle", meaning far off or at a distance) and "gramma" (from Greek "grapho", meaning to write). The word "telegram" refers to a message that is written and sent over a distance.
Memory Tip
Think of sending a message 'far off' ('tele-') that is 'written' ('gramma') — that's what a telegram is.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.