transmitter

[trans-mit-er, tranz-]

noun

a person or thing that transmits.

Also called transmitting set. Radio. a device for sending electromagnetic waves; the part of a broadcasting apparatus that generates and modulates the radiofrequency current and conveys it to the antenna.

the part of a telephonic or telegraphic apparatus that converts sound waves or mechanical movements into corresponding electric waves or impulses.

Biochemistry. neurotransmitter.

Origin of transmitter

First recorded in 1720–30; transmit + -er¹

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for transmitter

Contemporary Examples of transmitter

The transmitter turns the iPod into an individual radio station, with a broadcast radius of a few feet.
Decentralized Dance Parties: Raves’ Next Wave
Winston Ross
February 3, 2012

Historical Examples of transmitter

Mr. Tainter saw me disappear from the window, and at once spoke to the transmitter.
Heroes of the Telegraph
J. Munro
I put down the transmitter and pressed my hand to my forehead.
Punch or the London Charivari, Vol. 147, July 8, 1914
Various
At length all was ready for a test and the message flashed from transmitter to receiver.
The Age of Invention
Holland Thompson
He took the receiver from its hook and spoke into the transmitter.
Cy Whittaker's Place
Joseph C. Lincoln
He jerked the receiver from the hook, placed it at his ear, and shouted into the transmitter.
Cap'n Dan's Daughter
Joseph C. Lincoln

British Dictionary definitions for transmitter

transmitter

noun

a person or thing that transmits

the equipment used for generating and amplifying a radio-frequency carrier, modulating the carrier with information, and feeding it to an aerial for transmission

the microphone in a telephone that converts sound waves into audio-frequency electrical signals

a device that converts mechanical movements into coded electrical signals transmitted along a telegraph circuit

physiol short for neurotransmitter

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

Word Origin and History for transmitter

"apparatus for receiving radio signals," 1934, agent noun from transmit.

Science definitions for transmitter

transmitter

[trăns′mĭt-ər]

A device that converts sound, light, or electrical signals into radio, microwave, or other electrical signals of sufficient strength for the purpose of telecommunication. Compare receiver.