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Glite Dictionary
audion

audion

1 9.9
An early vacuum tube that makes weak radio signals stronger
  • noun
  • /ˈɔːdiən/
  • Archaic
translation icon : audión
  • Lee De Forest patented the audion in the early 1900s, changing electronics forever.

Examples

  • Many audions were used in vintage radios.

  • The audion was essential in early radio technology.

  • The invention of the audion made long-distance radio communication possible.

  • Early radio receivers relied on the audion to boost weak signals.

  • The engineer explained how the audion amplifies weak signals in radio transmissions.

  • In early radio technology, the audion was essential for improving sound quality.

  • Many vintage radios included an audion to boost audio clarity and reception.

Synonyms

amplifier
vsaudion
  • Specialized
30 3.4

A device that makes sound or radio signals louder

is a specific early vacuum tube type rather than a general device
audio amplifier
vsaudion
  • Specialized
3.9

A device that makes sound stronger so speakers make it louder

is broader in use, applied across radios and other equipment

Surface Forms

audion singular
audions plural

Etymology

The word audion comes from the Latin root audire ('to hear') and the familiar word audio, so its name is built around hearing. That's why an audion was an early electronic tube that made weak radio signals louder, helping us 'hear' faint sounds.