# radio

/ˈɹeɪdiˌoʊ/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪdɪˌəʊ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. the technology

noun · CEFR A2

the technology used to send sound or signals through the air using waves.

For teachers: the technology of signalling and communicating using radio waves; uncountable in this abstract sense.

- The invention of radio changed how people received news in the early twentieth century.
- Early pioneers in radio experimented with various frequencies before the medium was regulated for commercial broadcasting.

### 2. the device

noun · CEFR A1

a piece of equipment you use to listen to music, news, or programs.

For teachers: an electronic receiver that detects and demodulates radio frequency signals into audible sound.

- He likes to listen to the radio while he is driving to work.
- She kept a battery-powered radio in the kitchen to stay informed during the frequent power outages in the winter.

### 3. internet streaming

noun · CEFR B1

continuous music or talk programs played over the internet.

For teachers: the continuous streaming of audio content via the internet, mimicking the format of traditional broadcast radio.

- I usually listen to internet radio while I am studying at my computer.
- The rise of personalized internet radio has significantly disrupted the advertising revenue of traditional FM stations.

### 4. to send a message

verb · CEFR B1

to send a message to someone using a two-way radio signal.

For teachers: to transmit a message or communicate with a specific recipient using a radiotelegraphic or radiotelephonic system.

- The pilot had to radio the airport to ask for permission to land.
- The stranded hikers managed to radio for assistance just before their handheld device ran out of power.

Usage: The verb is often used with 'for' when requesting help.

## Examples

- I listen to the radio while I drive to work.
- The local radio station provides weather updates and traffic reports every thirty minutes during the morning commute.
- Despite the rise of digital streaming platforms, traditional radio remains a vital source of information and community connection in many rural areas across the globe.

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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.