CABLE

Definition of CABLE

CABLE Noun and Verb

Cable is a noun and a verb that primarily refers to a strong, flexible wire or bundle of wires used to transmit electricity, data, or signals. It can also refer to a thick rope used in construction or other heavy-duty applications. As a verb, cable means to send or transmit something via a cable, such as messages, signals, or data. The word is widely used in both electrical and mechanical contexts and can apply to a range of uses from communication systems to maritime equipment.

CABLE as a noun

As a noun, cable commonly refers to a conductor, typically made of metal wires or fibers, that is used to carry electrical currents, data, or signals. For example, “The technician replaced the faulty cable to restore the internet connection” refers to a wire used to transmit digital signals. Cables are essential in telecommunications, computer networks, and power distribution, where they allow for the efficient transfer of energy or information.

Cable for Physical Connection: In a broader sense, cable can also refer to a wire or bundle of wires used to physically connect devices or systems, often in communication networks. For example, “The building is connected to the power grid by a high-voltage cable” illustrates how cables are used to link infrastructure components together. This type of cable is typically designed to be durable and capable of withstanding harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures or physical stress.

Strong Rope or Wire: In another context, cable can refer to a thick, strong rope or cord made of twisted strands of metal or fiber. This type of cable is often used in construction, shipping, or mechanical systems where great strength is required. For example, “The ship’s anchor was secured with a steel cable, ensuring stability during the storm” demonstrates how cables are used for heavy-duty applications, such as securing, lifting, or supporting loads. These ropes or cables are built to be incredibly strong and durable.

Cable TV or Satellite Service: Cable can also refer to a subscription-based television service that transmits programs via a network of cables. For example, “We need to upgrade our cable package to get access to more channels” refers to the media service provided through cable networks. Similarly, cable television often includes services like on-demand streaming, pay-per-view, and special programming that are delivered through wired infrastructure.

Maritime Cable: In maritime contexts, cable refers to a large, strong rope or chain used for anchoring ships or securing heavy equipment. For example, “The ship dropped its cable to anchor off the coast” refers to a thick chain or rope used to tether a vessel to a fixed object, such as the seabed or a dock. These cables are often made of steel or other materials designed for maximum strength in underwater environments.

CABLE as a verb

As a verb, cable refers to sending a message or signal via a wire, often used in the context of telecommunication or remote communication. For example, “They cabled the embassy to inform them of the decision” refers to sending a message via telegraph or other wired communication methods. The verb can also refer to transmitting data or signals over a network of cables, such as when information is cabled between computer systems.

To Install or Connect with Cable: Cable can also be used as a verb to describe the process of installing or connecting devices using cables. For example, “The electricians cabled the entire building to ensure all outlets had power” refers to the act of laying or installing cables to enable electrical or data connections. This term can apply to both commercial and residential installations, such as wiring homes or offices.

In conclusion, cable is a versatile term with various meanings, including its use as a wire or bundle of wires for transmitting electrical or data signals, a strong rope used in construction and shipping, and a system for delivering television services. As a verb, it refers to sending information or installing equipment via cables. From everyday telecommunications and power transmission to specialized maritime and construction applications, cable plays a crucial role in both modern infrastructure and industrial operations. Whether it’s connecting devices, transmitting information, or providing strength in heavy-duty tasks, cable is fundamental in various sectors and industries.

Examples of CABLE in a sentence

CABLE as a noun in a sentence

• The electrician fixed the broken cable that was causing the power outage in the house.
• They used a thick cable to secure the boat to the dock during the storm.
• The television stopped working because the cable was loose in the back of the TV.
• The cable that runs underground supplies electricity to the entire neighborhood.
• He tangled the long cable while trying to pack up his equipment for the trip.
• The company installed a new cable system to provide internet access to rural areas.
• The elevator was powered by a strong steel cable that could carry heavy loads.
• The internet connection was down due to a problem with the cable connecting the router to the wall.

CABLE as a verb in a sentence

• The technician had to cable the building with new wiring to improve the internet connection.
• They decided to cable the event for live broadcast, ensuring viewers could watch from home.
• The crew began to cable the entire ship with communication lines before setting sail.
• He carefully cabled the computers together to create a secure network for the office.
• The workers were instructed to cable the new installation before testing the system.
• The company plans to cable the area for a faster internet rollout in the coming months.
• To improve security, they decided to cable the cameras to a central monitoring system.
• The contractor will cable the entire building with fiber-optic cables to upgrade its infrastructure.

Origin of CABLE

The term cable has an extensive etymology, reflecting its development from a physical object used for securing or connecting to a key element in communication and technology.

Semantic Context: Cable is a noun that refers to a strong, thick rope or wire, typically used to support, connect, or transmit power, signals, or data. In modern usage, cable can refer to various types of electrical or communication cables, such as power cables, coaxial cables, or fiber optic cables. The term is also used as a verb, meaning to send information via a cable or to bind something with a cable.

• Etymological Roots: The word cable comes from the Middle French “cable,” which is derived from the Old French “cable” or “cablier” (a large rope). It is believed to trace back to the Latin “capulum,” meaning a rope or cord, which itself comes from the verb “capere” (to seize or take hold of). The term initially referred to a strong, heavy rope used in maritime contexts to anchor or secure ships, a usage that extended into the modern meaning of a cable as a thick, durable cord.
• Historical Development: The use of cable in its nautical context dates back to the 14th century, when it referred specifically to the ropes or chains used to secure ships to docks or anchors. As maritime technology evolved, so did the applications of cables, particularly with the rise of the Industrial Revolution, when cables were used in machinery, communications (such as the telegraph), and the emerging electric power industry. By the 19th century, cables had expanded beyond ropes to include any strong, insulated wire or bundle of wires used for transmitting electricity or data. With the invention of the telegraph and later the telephone, cables became integral in long-distance communication, leading to the modern usage of the term in telecommunications and electrical engineering.
• Cultural and Scientific Applications: In the context of telecommunications, cable is crucial to the transmission of data. The use of cables for telegraphy, telephone systems, and television broadcasting was revolutionary in the 19th and 20th centuries, allowing for the rapid spread of information over long distances. In modern science and technology, cables are used in a variety of fields, including electronics, computing, and electrical engineering, where cables are used to transmit power, signals, and data between devices. Underwater cables, such as those used for global internet and communications infrastructure, are another key application of the term. Cables are also integral in mechanical systems and machinery, where they may be used to control, lift, or move objects, as in cranes and elevators.
• Current Usage: Today, the term cable is widely used in both its traditional and modern forms. In the context of utilities and communications, cables are critical components for transmitting electricity, broadband internet, and television signals. Coaxial and fiber optic cables are central to modern telecommunications infrastructure. The verb to cable refers to sending messages or transmitting information via telegraph or other communication cables. In everyday language, cable can also refer to the subscription service that delivers television content, often referred to as “cable TV.”

The term cable has evolved from its maritime origins, where it referred to ropes used to secure ships, to a broad term that now encompasses various types of wires and systems for transmitting power, signals, and data, reflecting its integral role in modern communication, infrastructure, and technology.