Dictionary

tel•e•graph

Pronunciation: (tel'i-graf", -gräf"), [key]
—n.
1. an apparatus, system, or process for transmitting messages or signals to a distant place, esp. by means of an electric device consisting essentially of a sending instrument and a distant receiving instrument connected by a conducting wire or other communications channel.
2. Naut.an apparatus, usually mechanical, for transmitting and receiving orders between the bridge of a ship and the engine room or some other part of the engineering department.
3. a telegraphic message.

—v.t.
1. to transmit or send (a message) by telegraph.
2. to send a message to (a person) by telegraph.
3. Informal.to divulge or indicate unwittingly (one's intention, next offensive move, etc.), as to an opponent or to an audience; broadcast: The fighter telegraphed his punch and his opponent was able to parry it. If you act nervous too early in the scene, you'll telegraph the character's guilt.

—v.i.
to send a message by telegraph.

telegraph buoy

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