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Glite Dictionary
📡 A data stream 📺 A secondary channel
subchannel

subchannel

1 6.6
A part of a TV or radio station that shows extra programs
  • noun
  • /ˈsʌbˌtʃænəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : subcanal
  • Can you access the subchannel for news updates?

Examples

  • The radio station has a dedicated subchannel for classical music.

  • You can watch local news on the main channel and weather updates on the subchannel.

  • The sports event was broadcast on a dedicated subchannel to avoid interrupting regular programming.

  • Each subchannel on the radio station offers a different genre of music.

  • Many television networks offer additional programming on their subchannel to reach specific audiences.

  • During the broadcast, the news was transmitted on a special subchannel dedicated to local coverage.

  • Some digital cable providers allow viewers to access local subchannels that feature community content.

Synonyms

substream
vssubchannel
  • Specialized
6.2

A smaller flow of data that is part of a larger stream

is a subsidiary channel within a main channel used in broadcasting or digital media

How Important

channel
230 3.6
subchannel
  • Specialized
1 6.6
auxiliary
69 6.5

Surface Forms

subchannel singular
subchannels plural

Morphology

subchannel = channel (transparent) = sub + channel

The meaning is a straightforward 'sub-' (secondary/under) + 'channel' combination, so learners can derive it from the base.

Etymology

Subchannel comes from sub- meaning 'under' or 'secondary', as in submarine or subway, and channel meaning a 'path' or a TV 'channel'. So a subchannel is a smaller, secondary channel inside a main channel used to carry extra shows or special content.