Pronunciation: [klˈɒk ɹˈe͡ɪdɪˌə͡ʊz] (IPA) 
"Clock radios" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /klɑk ˈreɪdiˌoʊz/. The first part of the word, "clock," is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "ocean" and a hard "k" sound. The second part, "radios," is pronounced with a long "a" sound as in "ray" and a hard "z" sound. The term refers to electronic devices that combine a clock and a radio into a single unit, commonly used as a bedside alarm clock.
Clock radios are electronic devices that combine the functionalities of a clock and a radio in one unit. They are primarily designed to serve as alarm clocks with built-in radios, allowing users to wake up to their favorite radio stations or pre-set alarm sounds.
Typically featuring a digital or analog clock display, clock radios enable users to view the time at a glance, making them essential bedroom accessories. They often offer various time-keeping features, such as displaying 12-hour or 24-hour formats, as well as the ability to adjust the time manually or automatically through radio signals or internet connectivity. This ensures accurate timekeeping, which is vital for alarm functions.
Clock radios also incorporate radio tuners that allow users to access and listen to AM, FM, or sometimes even shortwave radio stations. They come with tuning controls, such as dials or buttons, allowing users to search for their desired stations and adjust the volume to their liking. Many clock radios have preset buttons that enable users to store and quickly access their preferred radio stations.
Moreover, clock radios often include alarm features, enabling users to set wake-up times using customizable alarms or radio stations. These alarms can be set to various options, such as gradual volume increase, snooze functions, or dual alarms to accommodate different waking schedules. Clock radios may also provide additional features like sleep timers, which allow users to program the radio to turn off after a certain duration, promoting a relaxing atmosphere for falling asleep.
In conclusion, clock radios serve as multi-purpose devices that combine the essential functions of timekeeping, alarm, and radio reception, making them convenient and space-saving options for individuals seeking to have a compact and versatile device by their bedside.
The word "clock radios" is a combination of two words: "clock" and "radios".
The word "clock" originated from the Middle English word "clokke" which referred to a bell or timekeeping device. The English word can be traced back to the Old North French word "cloque" meaning "bell". It is also related to the Medieval Latin word "clocca" with the same meaning.
The word "radios" comes from the noun "radio", which was originally short for "radiotelegraphy". The term "radio" was first coined by wireless pioneer Guglielmo Marconi in the late 19th century, and it derives from the Latin word "radius", meaning "ray" or "beam".
