telegenic

American  

[tel-i-jen-ik] / ˌtɛl ɪˈdʒɛn ɪk /

adjective

1. having physical qualities or characteristics that televise well; videogenic.

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telegenic British  

/ ˌtɛlɪˈdʒɛnɪk /

adjective

1. having or showing a pleasant television image

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Other Word Forms

• telegenically adverb

Etymology

Origin of telegenic

First recorded in 1935–40; tele(vision) + -genic

Explanation

Anyone who's telegenic looks great onscreen. If you want to be a TV meteorologist, you'll need to study a lot of science, but you'll also have to be telegenic. Some people are telegenic because they're just so attractive, with a physical appearance that appeals to most viewers. Others just seem to have a charismatic way of relating to the camera that makes them suited to being on television (or in movies or videos). Most newscasters and movie stars are undeniably telegenic. The word telegenic was coined in 1937, a combination of television and photogenic.

Example Sentences

OceanX brought in Hollywood designers to make the ship telegenic, with a futuristic "mission control" and customisable lighting for optimal filming conditions.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

Newsom rose to the occasion, using his greatest asset: invaluable communication skills coupled with telegenic looks.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2025

At only 52 he is comparatively young and telegenic, and he could help Mr Trump gain a larger share of the Latino vote.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2024

And they're not the telegenic influencers making us laugh off proposals and positions that should terrify us.

From Salon • Mar. 10, 2024

They grow up accepting the politics of telegenic competition, a poor substitute for competence and commitment.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai

Related Words

• televised