telethon

word

Definition

A long television program broadcast to raise money for charity, usually featuring entertainers, appeals for donations, and updates on the fundraising total.

Usage & Nuances

'Telethon' is primarily used for charity events on TV and is especially common in the US. It's a blend of 'television' and 'marathon.' Not used for regular fundraising or short events. Often linked with annual or special national fundraising efforts.

Example Sentences

The telethon started at noon and lasted all night.

basic

We watched the telethon to see the celebrities perform.

basic

The telethon raised a lot of money for children’s hospitals.

basic

Did you catch last night’s telethon? They broke the fundraising record!

natural

Every year, the network hosts a telethon to help disaster victims.

natural

It’s amazing how much people give during a telethon when they see real stories on TV.

natural