n. & v.
n. 1 a a system of or device for transmitting messages or signals to a distance esp. by making and breaking an electrical connection. b (attrib.) used in this system (telegraph pole; telegraph wire). 2 (in full telegraph board) a board displaying scores or other information at a match, race meeting, etc.
v. 1 tr. send a message by telegraph to. 2 tr. send by telegraph. 3 tr. give an advance indication of. 4 intr. make signals (telegraphed to me to come up). telegraph key a device for making and breaking the electric circuit of a telegraph system. telegraph plant an E. Indian plant, Desmodium gyrans, whose leaves have a spontaneous jerking motion. telegrapher n.
[ F télégraphe (as TELE-, -GRAPH) ]