Telegenic is a 9-letter word that is commonly used in the world of broadcast media. The word is pronounced /ˌtɛl.ɪˈdʒɛn.ɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable "tele" refers to television, and "genic" comes from the Greek word "genos" meaning "born". Therefore, telegenic means "born for television". It's typically used to describe someone with an attractive and photogenic appearance that translates well on camera. This word is often used to describe politicians, actors, and news anchors.
Telegenic is an adjective that describes someone or something as having an appearance or qualities that are particularly appealing or suited for television or other forms of visual media. The term is derived from the combination of the words "television" and "photogenic."
When applied to a person, telegenic usually suggests that they possess physical attributes that are visually pleasing and captivating on camera. Such individuals often have symmetrical facial features, a charismatic presence, and an ability to connect with an audience through their nonverbal communication. People who are considered telegenic tend to possess qualities such as charm, expressiveness, and an engaging personality that make them well-suited for appearing in televised programs or films.
Telegenic is not exclusive to individuals, as it can also describe objects, places, or events that are visually striking or captivating when presented on screen. This can encompass various elements such as stunning cinematography, appealing set designs, vibrant colors, or eye-catching visuals that enhance the overall visual experience for the viewers.
In summary, telegenic refers to the visual appeal and attractiveness of someone or something specifically for television or visual media. It denotes an individual's inherent ability to captivate an audience through their appearance, mannerisms, and overall presence, or the attractiveness and visual impact of objects, places, or events depicted in visual media.
The word "telegenic" is derived from two components: "tele-" and "genic".
The prefix "tele-" originates from the Greek word "tēle" (meaning "far off" or "at a distance") and it is commonly associated with telecommunications, television, or distance-related terms.
The second component, "-genic", is derived from the Greek word "genēs" (meaning "producing" or "causing"). This suffix is often used in English to indicate something related to or causing a particular quality or characteristic.
Therefore, when combined, "tele-" and "-genic" form "telegenic", meaning something or someone who appears attractive, engaging, or appealing on television or in front of a camera.