telegraph
UK/'teligrɑ:f/US
TOEFLB1
Definitions
n.
A 19th-century system for sending messages over long distances using electrical signals or wires.
电报（机），19 世纪用电信号或线路远距离传递信息的系统。
v.
To send a message by telegraph.
用电报发送（信息）。
v.
To reveal a move or intention unintentionally and in advance.
（无意中）提前透露动作或意图。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedtele- (far) + graph (write) = 'writing at a distance.' The telegraph let you send written words across hundreds of miles in seconds. The figurative sense — to telegraph a punch — comes from the same idea: you 'transmit' your intention before it lands.
Root graph still carries 34 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.telegraph line电报线路
- 2.telegraph operator电报员
- 3.electric telegraph有线电报
- 4.telegraph message电报信息
Example Sentences
- 1.
Before the telephone, the telegraph was the fastest way to send news.
- 2.
She telegraphed the family as soon as the ship reached port.
- 3.
A good boxer never telegraphs his next move.