modem
UK: ˈməʊdəm | US: ˈmoʊdəm
n. A device that modulates and demodulates signals to enable communication between computers over telephone lines or other channels.
The word "modem" is a portmanteau blending "modulate" and "demodulate," reflecting its dual function in telecommunications. Coined in the mid-20th century, it succinctly captures the device’s role in encoding (modulating) and decoding (demodulating) data signals for transmission. The clipped "em" from "demodulate" ensures brevity while preserving the core technical logic.
The modem converts digital data into analog signals for phone line transmission.
Without a modem, early internet access was impossible.
She reset the modem to fix the connection issue.
Fiber-optic networks reduced reliance on traditional modems.
The technician replaced the outdated modem with a newer model.