WordGarden.ioshortwave
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʃˈɔːtweɪv/
US
- /ˈʃɔrtˈweɪv/
Meanings
Noun
the high-frequency radio band used for long-distance broadcasting and communication
a shortwave disturbance in the atmosphere that can affect weather patterns
Beyond the definition
Imagine trying to listen to a radio station from very far away. Most stations would fade out quickly. But this kind of radio can travel much farther because the signals can bounce off layers high in the atmosphere and return to Earth.
For many years, it was important for international broadcasting, helping governments and news groups reach people across borders when other ways of communicating were limited. Today, it is still used by hobbyists who enjoy listening to stations from other countries and by amateur radio operators, or hams, who talk with people around the world. It feels a bit like a global conversation floating through the air.
Shortwave refers to the part of the radio spectrum used for transmission at roughly 1.6 MHz to 30 MHz. Unlike FM or ordinary AM radio, which usually weakens more quickly over distance, shortwave often uses skywave propagation. This means the signals are bent back toward Earth by the ionosphere, allowing them to travel thousands of miles.
Historically, shortwave broadcasting was crucial for international news and propaganda during the 20th century, especially during wartime when access to information was strictly controlled. Organizations like the BBC World Service, Voice of America, and Radio Free Europe used shortwave to reach audiences behind the Iron Curtain or in countries with limited press freedom.
Today, while satellite and internet communication are more common, shortwave remains popular among hobbyists and emergency communicators. Shortwave listening (SWL) involves tuning in to broadcasts from around the world, including news, music, cultural programs, and even mysterious "numbers stations." Amateur radio, also known as "ham radio," uses shortwave frequencies for two-way communication between licensed operators across the globe. It is a fascinating hobby that combines technical skill with a strong sense of global community.
So, whether you're interested in international broadcasting, emergency preparedness, or simply the thrill of hearing voices from distant lands, shortwave offers a unique window into the world and a powerful way to connect across borders.
Examples
- 1
Radio listening
My grandfather still listens to the BBC on shortwave at night.
- 2
Emergency signal
During the blackout, they picked up a shortwave signal from a ship offshore.
- 3
Broadcasting
The station stopped broadcasting on shortwave and moved all its programs online.
See also
Similar
- high frequency
- hf radio
Shades of meaning
- world band
Contrast
- longwave
- medium wave
Used with (collocations)
- shortwave radio
- shortwave broadcast
- shortwave receiver
Explore
- radio spectrum
- skywave propagation
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- shortwavenoun
Forms
- shortwavespluralnoun