# CCTV

/ˈsiˌsiˈtiˌvi/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cctv
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. security cameras

noun · CEFR B1

Stands for Closed-Circuit Television. You use this to talk about cameras that watch buildings or streets to prevent crime.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Closed-Circuit Television. Refers to a system of video cameras used for surveillance and security monitoring within a restricted area.

- The shop installed CCTV to stop people from stealing clothes.
- The police reviewed the CCTV footage from the station to identify the suspect who had fled toward the main exit.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun like 'footage' or 'camera'.

Teaching tip: In the UK, this is the standard term for security cameras; in the US, people often just say 'security cameras' or 'surveillance'.

### 2. Chinese broadcaster

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

Stands for China Central Television. This is the main television broadcaster in China.

For teachers: Abbreviation for China Central Television. The state-controlled television broadcaster in the People's Republic of China.

- I watched the news report on CCTV while I was visiting Beijing.
- CCTV operates dozens of channels, broadcasting a variety of programming including news, documentaries, and entertainment to a massive domestic audience.

Usage: Always capitalized as a proper noun.

Teaching tip: Context usually makes it clear whether the speaker means security cameras or the Chinese TV network.

## Examples

- The shop installed CCTV to prevent theft.
- Security guards monitored the CCTV footage to identify the person who left the bag unattended in the lobby.
- While proponents argue that widespread CCTV coverage significantly deters criminal activity, civil liberties groups often raise concerns regarding the potential for constant surveillance to infringe upon the right to individual privacy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.