Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

off-air

American  
[awf-air, of-] / ˈɔfˈɛər, ˈɒf- /

adjective

  1. not broadcast, but said, played, or happening in a radio or television studio context.


off-air British  

adjective

  1. obtained by reception of a radiated broadcasting signal rather than by line feed

    an off-air recording

  2. connected with a radio or television programme but not broadcast

    an off-air phone-in

"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

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.

While “Sherri” will go off-air after this season, the Debmar-Mercury execs said they “believe in this show” and its eponymous host and will seek to “explore alternatives for it on other platforms.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2026

"These people work in both on and off-air roles, dotted across the organisation in different functions and departments. They are often in positions where power could be abused," the report said.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2025

Holmes and Amy Robach were taken off-air on Dec. 5, 2022 — exactly a year ago — as news of their relationship came to light.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2023

She announced on Friday she was separating from her long-time partner, TV presenter Andrea Giambruno, after he repeatedly sparked outrage for sexist comments made on and off-air.

From Reuters • Oct. 22, 2023

Upon conclusion of such retention period, all off-air recordings must be erased or destroyed immediately.

From Reproduction of Copyrighted Works By Educators and Librarians by Library of Congress. Copyright Office