3G

American

abbreviation

Telecommunications, Digital Technology.

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

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.

This is a constant headache and also meant she could not upgrade her Sim card from 3G to 5G remotely.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 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

Buffett helped engineer the merger of Kraft and Heinz. 3G has exited what once was a sizable stake in Kraft Heinz.

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

A more experimental Berkshire deal went sour in 2025 when packaged food giant Kraft Heinz announced it is splitting in two—undoing a 2015 merger financed by Berkshire and private-equity firm 3G Capital.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 31, 2025

Books could be downloaded via the device's 3G wireless connection, with no need for a computer, unlike the Sony Reader.

From The eBook is 40 (1971-2011) by Lebert, Marie

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023