remote control

noun

1. control of the operation or performance of an apparatus from a distance, as the control of a guided missile by radio signals.
2. Also called remote. a device used to control the operation of an apparatus or machine, as a television set, from a distance.

remote control

noun

1. control of a system or activity by a person at a different place, usually by means of radio or ultrasonic signals or by electrical signals transmitted by wire
2. Also:remote a hand-held device that enables remote control of a system or appliance

Derived Forms

• reˈmote-conˈtrolled, adjective

Other Words From

• re·mote-con·trol adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of remote control¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Imagine watching a television where an impolite houseguest holds the remote control and arbitrarily changes the channels.

From Salon

In the carcass of one burnt-out home, a board game rests on top of a coffee table, next to a melted television remote control.

From BBC

In January 2005, the company released the ZP100, a device with a remote control that allowed people to stream music through their computers.

From Los Angeles Times

That screen juggling was handled by a “switcher,” a human remote control who operated as a DJ of sorts.

From Los Angeles Times

"After demolition, we then use remote control vehicles to lift the bridge up, wheel it down the motorway and fix it into its final position."

From BBC