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3G

American  

abbreviation

Telecommunications, Digital Technology.
  1. third-generation: being or relating to a mobile device or communications technology that is more advanced than the earlier two versions, using high-speed broadband to support internet access and multimedia applications.

    3G tablets and e-readers.


3G British  

abbreviation

  1. third-generation; a system for mobile phones allowing fast connection, internet access, digital photography, graphics transmission and display, and other advanced features

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of 3G

First recorded in 1995–2000


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.

See Examples For:

Meanwhile, Sheppey United, in Kent, has a concrete supporting wall around two sides of its 3G pitch, which will be covered in padding.

From BBC ● Sep. 25, 2026

More than a decade ago, a shareholder in the railroad operator CSX brought a case to recover short-swing profits earned by hedge-fund manager Chris Hohn’s TCI Fund Management and 3G Capital Partners.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 23, 2026

Hayes said the high coupon for the Skechers paper resulted from a “first-time issuer tax” as investors became familiar with the 3G deal.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 2, 2026

Famously, after Macclesfield knocked Palace out in the third round, it was claimed then Eagles captain Marc Guehi said at the coin toss he didn't fancy the 3G pitch.

From BBC ● Mar. 9, 2026

Julia bent down and saw that it was a form labeled 3G, "Complaints, Problems, Irregularities:" The rest was blank.

From Any Coincidence Is by Daniel Callahan

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