transceiver: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Formal
Quick answer
What does “transceiver” mean?
A device that can both transmit and receive signals, especially in radio communications.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that can both transmit and receive signals, especially in radio communications.
Any single unit combining a transmitter and receiver, often sharing common circuitry, used in telecommunications, networking (e.g., Wi-Fi, Ethernet), and two-way radio systems.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in technical contexts in both regions. Rare in everyday non-specialist conversation.
Grammar
How to Use “transceiver” in a Sentence
The [device] contains a transceiverThe [system] uses a transceiver to [communicate]Connect the [antenna] to the transceiverVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transceiver” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The transceiver unit failed.
- We need transceiver compatibility.
American English
- The transceiver module is faulty.
- Check the transceiver specifications.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in telecommunications or IT companies when discussing networking hardware or radio equipment.
Academic
Common in engineering, computer science, and physics papers discussing communication systems and network components.
Everyday
Virtually unused in casual conversation unless discussing amateur radio, specific hobbies, or technical setups.
Technical
The primary context. Refers to the key hardware component for bidirectional data transmission in networks, radios, and IoT devices.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “transceiver”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “transceiver”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transceiver”
- Using 'transceiver' to refer to a simple receiver (e.g., a car radio).
- Pronouncing it as /ˈtrænsɪvə/ (missing the long 'ee' sound).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, fundamentally. A mobile phone contains transceiver circuitry to both send (transmit) and receive voice and data signals with cell towers.
A modem (modulator-demodulator) specifically converts digital data to analog signals for transmission and vice versa. A transceiver handles the actual transmission and reception of those signals. A modem often contains a transceiver.
No, 'transceiver' is exclusively a noun in standard English. The verb form does not exist.
Yes, very commonly. Devices like network interface cards (NICs), Wi-Fi adapters, and fibre optic modules (like SFP) are all types of transceivers.
A device that can both transmit and receive signals, especially in radio communications.
Transceiver is usually technical / formal in register.
Transceiver: in British English it is pronounced /trænˈsiːvə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /trænˈsiːvər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'TRANSmit' and 'reCEIVER' smashed together. A TRANS-CEIVER does both.
Conceptual Metaphor
A two-way street for electronic signals.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a transceiver?