V-chip

American  

[vee-chip] / ˈviˌtʃɪp /

noun

1. a computer chip or other electronic device that blocks the reception of violent or sexually explicit television shows.

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V-chip British  

noun

1. a device within a television set that allows the set to be programmed not to receive transmissions that have been classified as containing sex, violence, or obscene language

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V-chip Cultural  

1. A congressionally mandated embedded microchip for television sets that automatically blocks sexual or violent programming when activated.

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Discover More

As of 2002, all TV sets sold in the United States contained a V-chip.

Etymology

Origin of V-chip

1990–95; v(iolent) or v(iolence) + chip ¹ (in the sense “a microprocessor or integrated circuit”

Example Sentences

He championed modest but popular proposals such as the V-chip, a device to help parents control what their children watch on television.

From Los Angeles Times

Don’t rely or wait for Twitter, YouTube or Pinterest to develop a TV-like V-chip.

From Washington Times

I’m sure some of you are familiar with the V-chip, the technology that allows you to control your child’s television access.

From Washington Times

All TV sets larger than 13 inches and manufactured since 2000 must abide by federal law and have the V-chip installed.

From Washington Times

When the great debates about to chip or not to chip were going in the 1990s, I was a strong proponent who proclaimed that I am the V-chip in my house, as all parents should be.

From Washington Times