dead air

noun

1. the loss or suspension of the video or audio signal during a television or radio transmission.

Word History and Origins

Origin of dead air¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

The callers often seem confused; there is dead air, and Mulaney, who does not hold the tightest rein over the show, will summarily end a conversation by asking what kind of car they drive.

From Los Angeles Times

But the film’s scattershot writing leaves its punchlines hitting dead air before falling smack against the floor.

From Salon

Instead, the backing track squawked for a second and then dead air filled the room, with nary a patriotic chord to be heard.

From Salon

For decades, people have been screaming into dead air about acknowledging the hurt and mistreatment of Indigenous people in Hollywood.

From Salon

The entire commentary shines with a very knowledgeable director explaining his craft and his motivations with only a few areas of dead air.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• blackout 
• calm 
• lull 
• peace 
• quiet 
• reticence 
• secrecy 
• stillness