tv

"TV," short for television, is a common everyday word with two main uses. First, it can mean the device that shows moving pictures and sound. In this sense, someone might say, "We bought a new TV for the living room." Second, it can mean television programs in general, especially shows, news, sports, films, and other things people watch at home. In this sense, someone might say, "There isn't much on TV tonight."

The word is strongly linked with broadcast and cable television, but modern use is wider than that. People still say "TV" even when they are watching through a smart television, a cable box, or a streaming service on a television set. At the same time, it does not always mean every kind of online video. For example, a short random clip on a phone would not usually be called "TV," but a drama series, a live sports broadcast, or a news program often would be.

"TV" also appears in common expressions. "Reality TV" means unscripted entertainment shows. "TV channel" means a station or service that shows programs. "TV dinner" means a packaged meal made to be heated and eaten quickly, traditionally while watching television. In all of these uses, the word carries the idea of watching programs made for a broad audience, usually for information or entertainment.