telegraphy

noun

te·​leg·​ra·​phy tə-ˈle-grə-fē How to pronounce telegraphy (audio)
: the use or operation of a telegraph apparatus or system for communication

Examples of telegraphy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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There were also sections on the latest technological advances (like telegraphy and phrenology). — Jim Euchner, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024 Early successes in long-distance telegraphy and electrical engineering quickly sent the company across Europe. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 21 Jan. 2026 The highest enrollment was likely in 1909, with some 90 students studying bookkeeping, telegraphy, penmanship, math and English. — Arkansas Online, 23 Apr. 2026 Local reformers penned essays and articles in the flourishing Arab-language presses to communicate their reflections on time but also, occasionally, poems about telegraphy and clocks. — Vanessa Ogle, Foreign Affairs, 12 Oct. 2015 See All Example Sentences for telegraphy

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of telegraphy was in 1794

Phrases Containing telegraphy

Rhymes for telegraphy

See All Rhymes for telegraphy

Browse Nearby Words

telegraph stamp
telegraphy
Telegu
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Cite this Entry

“Telegraphy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/telegraphy. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

telegraphy

noun
te·​leg·​ra·​phy tə-ˈleg-rə-fē How to pronounce telegraphy (audio)
: the use or operation of a telegraph system or equipment

More from Merriam-Webster on telegraphy

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about telegraphy

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