a type of telegraphy in which messages (usually in Morse code) are transmitted by radio waves; its use is no longer widespread as it has been superseded by satellite technology
Also called: wireless telegraphy
Derived forms
radiotelegraphic (ˌreɪdɪəʊˌtɛlɪˈɡræfɪk)
adjective
radiotelegraphically (ˌradioˌteleˈgraphically)
adverb
radiotelegraphy in American English
(ˌreidioutəˈleɡrəfi)
noun
the constructing or operating of radiotelegraphs
Word origin
[1895–1900; radio- + telegraphy]This word is first recorded in the period 1895–1900. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: backwind, calling card, frame of reference, neon, slapstickradio- is a combining form with the meanings “dealing with radiant energy” (radiometer), “employing or dealing with radio waves” (radioacoustics; radiolocation; radiotelephone), “emitting rays as a result of the breakup of atomic nuclei” (radioactive; radiocarbon), “characterized by, employing or dealing with such rays” (radiography; radiopaque; radiotherapy)