over-the-air
Americanadjective
Etymology
Origin of over-the-air
First recorded in 1970–75
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
This year, Ford is very excited about the truck’s 5G wi-fi comms, enabling over-the-air updates and other services.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026
The Model S also introduced several features that would become Tesla staples, including large computer screens, over-the-air software updates and controversial door handles.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 29, 2026
To remedy the issue, Rivian released an over-the-air software update that will automatically detect seat belt misuse.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 3, 2025
Rivian will fix the issue with an over-the-air software update and inspect the parts free of charge.
From Barron's • Dec. 3, 2025
Software-defined vehicles can receive over-the-air updates to improve their performance and features, but need internet connections to be able to do so.
From BBC • Oct. 30, 2025
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.