English Reference
noun · verb

cable

n. · v.
US /ˈkeɪbəɫ/ UK /kˈeɪbəl/ ca·ble UK spelling cables

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Computing

    n.a set of wires covered in plastic that carries electricity or signals for computers and phones.

    n.an insulated wire or fiber optic strand used for the transmission of electricity or electronic signals.

    Simple

    I need a longer cable to connect my laptop to the monitor.

    In context

    The technician replaced the damaged ethernet cable to restore the high-speed connection between the server and the local workstations.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.a very strong, thick rope made of wire or hemp, used for pulling or supporting heavy things.

    n.a heavy, strong rope or chain, often made of twisted steel strands, used for structural support or traction.

    Simple

    The bridge is held up by massive steel cables.

    In context

    The ship was secured to the pier with thick mooring cables to prevent it from drifting during the storm.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

    n.a system of sending television programmes to your house through wires rather than through the air.

    n.a system of broadcasting television programming to paying subscribers via coaxial or fiber-optic cables.

    Simple

    We decided to cancel our cable because we only watch streaming services now.

    In context

    The network expanded its reach by signing a new distribution deal with the country's largest cable provider.

    cable TV
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Archaic

    n.an old-fashioned message sent by wire across long distances.

    n.a telegram sent by submarine telegraph cable; historically significant in international diplomacy.

    Simple

    The diplomat sent a secret cable back to his government during the crisis.

    In context

    Historians recently declassified a series of diplomatic cables that reveal the tension between the two nations during the 1940s.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    n.a unit of distance used by sailors, equal to about 185 metres.

    n.a maritime unit of length, traditionally one-tenth of a nautical mile or approximately 100 fathoms.

    Simple

    The two ships stayed about three cables apart to avoid a collision.

    In context

    The navigator noted that the reef was situated approximately five cables to the starboard side of the vessel's current heading.

    cable length
  6. 06 C2 Proficiency TechnicalSlang

    n.a name used by traders for the exchange rate between the British Pound and the US Dollar.

    n.a financial market term for the GBP/USD exchange rate, originating from the transatlantic telegraph cable.

    Simple

    Traders watched cable closely after the central bank announced the new interest rates.

    In context

    Volatility in cable increased significantly following the unexpected economic data released by the UK Treasury this morning.

  7. 07 C1 Advanced Archaic

    v.to send a message to someone using an old telegraph system.

    v.to transmit a message or news via telegraphic cable; predominantly used in historical contexts.

    Simple

    The captain cabled the news of the discovery to the main office.

    In context

    The embassy cabled the foreign ministry immediately after the treaty was signed to confirm the successful negotiation.

  8. 08 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    v.to put wires into a building or a piece of equipment.

    v.to equip a building, room, or device with electrical or data cables.

    Simple

    The workers are busy cabling the new office for high-speed internet.

    In context

    The entire facility was cabled with fiber optics to ensure the infrastructure could handle future bandwidth requirements.

If you’re outside when the earthquake hits, head straight away to an open space, away from buildings, traffic lights or electricity cables, as well as big trees and bridges.

The Local· 18 Aug 2026

It contained 864 servers and was connected to shore by an underwater cable.

The Conversation· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated