fiber-optic

UK: ˈfaɪbər ˈɒptɪk | US: ˈfaɪbər ˈɑːptɪk

Definition

  1. adj. relating to or using thin strands of glass or plastic (fibers) to transmit data as light pulses

  2. adj. describing technology that utilizes light signals for high-speed communication

Structure
fiber <strand>optic <light-related>
Etymology

The word combines "fiber" (from Latin fibra, meaning "thread" or "strand") and "optic" (from Greek optikos, meaning "of sight or light"). "Fiber" refers to the thin glass/plastic strands, while "optic" highlights the use of light for transmission. The term emerged in the mid-20th century with advancements in telecommunications, merging material (fiber) and function (light-based data transfer).

Examples

  1. Fiber-optic cables enable faster internet speeds than traditional copper wires.

  2. The hospital installed a fiber-optic network for seamless data sharing.

  3. Modern submarines use fiber-optic systems for secure communication.

  4. Researchers are improving fiber-optic technology to reduce signal loss.

  5. Streaming services rely heavily on fiber-optic infrastructure.