telepathy
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /təlˈɛpəθˌi/
US
- /təˈlɛpəθi/
Description
- Mind-reading
- thought transfer
- psychic communication
Imagine knowing what someone else is thinking without them saying a word. That's the core idea behind telepathy: the supposed ability to send thoughts directly from one mind to another without speaking, writing, or using the usual senses. It often appears in science fiction as a special power that lets characters share secrets, warnings, or plans instantly. Although science has not proved that it is real, the idea has fascinated people for centuries and shows up often in stories, films, and paranormal talk. You might say two characters have "telepathic communication" if they seem to understand each other without speaking.
Telepathy refers to the hypothetical transmission of thoughts or feelings between individuals through means other than known sensory channels. It's the idea that minds can connect directly, sharing information without using language, gestures, or any physical form of communication. The word itself comes from the Greek roots tele (distant) and pathos (feeling), suggesting a "distant feeling" connection.
Historically, interest in telepathy blossomed with the rise of spiritualism and parapsychology in the 19th and 20th centuries. Researchers attempted to prove its existence through experiments involving card guessing, dream sharing, and other methods—though conclusive scientific evidence remains elusive.
Today, "telepathy" is most often used in fictional contexts. Science fiction authors frequently employ telepathy as a plot device, creating societies where it's commonplace or granting characters unique abilities. For example, many stories feature characters who can silently hear or send thoughts across great distances. It can also be used metaphorically to describe an unusually strong connection between people: "They had a kind of telepathy; they just knew what the other was thinking."
While mainstream science remains skeptical, the enduring fascination with telepathy speaks to our deep-seated desire for deeper understanding and connection beyond the limitations of ordinary communication. So, whether you believe in its possibility or see it as pure fantasy, "telepathy" represents a captivating exploration of the hidden potential within the human mind.
Examples
- 1
Movie powers
In the movie, the child can talk to her brother by telepathy.
- 2
Psychic belief
My grandfather never believed in telepathy or any other psychic powers.
- 3
Close teamwork
Working with Maya sometimes feels like telepathy because she always knows what I need before I ask.
Usage
feels like telepathy
seems almost like telepathy; often used humorously
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- telepathynoun