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Tty Meaning in English

word

ˈtiˌtiˌwaɪ
TEE-tee-wy
ˈtiːˌtiːˌwaɪ
TEE-tee-wy

Definition

'TTY' stands for 'teletype' or 'teletypewriter.' It originally referred to early devices for sending typed messages, and is now often used in technology to mean a computer terminal or a special device for text communication, especially for people with hearing or speech difficulties.

Usage & Nuances

Very technical and formal; mostly used in computing and telecommunications fields. On Unix/Linux, 'tty' refers to a terminal device. Also, in accessibility contexts, a 'TTY device' enables text communication over telephone lines for the deaf or hard of hearing. Not commonly used in casual speech.

Example Sentences

A TTY was one of the first devices to send typed messages over a distance.

basic

On Linux, you can use the command line through a TTY terminal.

basic

Many deaf people use a TTY to communicate over the phone.

basic

The error message said 'no TTY present,' so I couldn't log in.

natural

If your computer freezes, try switching to another TTY by pressing Ctrl+Alt+F2.

natural

Sarah relies on her TTY device to keep in touch with her friends who also have hearing loss.

natural