What does telegraphed mean?
The verb 'telegraphed' means to give away or make obvious one's intentions or feelings, often unintentionally. This can happen through behavior, body language, or other nonverbal cues. For example, someone might telegraph their excitement by bouncing up and down in their seat or their boredom by checking their watch for the third time. The word is often used to describe situations where someone's emotions or intentions are unintentionally revealed, and it can be a useful way to describe a nonverbal communication that has been misinterpreted or misunderstood. The verb 'telegraphed' is commonly used in informal settings, such as in conversation or in writing, and it is often used to add nuance and depth to descriptions of human behavior.
verbTo give away or make obvious one's intentions or feelings, often unintentionally.
- To give away or make obvious one's intentions or feelings, often unintentionally.
"She telegraphed her excitement by bouncing up and down in her seat."
"She telegraphed her excitement by bouncing up and down in her seat."
"He telegraphed his boredom by checking his watch for the third time."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of telegraphed
The word 'telegraphed' comes from the verb 'telegraph', which means to send a message over a distance using a telegraph machine. The suffix '-ed' is a past participle form, indicating that the action of telegraphing has been completed. The word 'telegraphed' has been in use since the mid-20th century and has become a common way to describe nonverbal communication.
How telegraphed is actually used
This verb is often used to describe a situation where someone's emotions or intentions are unintentionally revealed through their behavior or body language.