fax
UK[fæks]US[fæks]
n
a copy of a document or picture sent electronically using a telephone line
n
a machine used for sending and receiving faxes
v
to send someone a document or picture using a fax machine
Etymology
the word 'fax' is a twentieth-century innovation, originating as a shortened form of 'facsimile'. 'facsimile' itself derives from the latin phrase 'fac simile', meaning 'make similar'. the term was originally used for an exact copy of a manuscript or artwork. with the invention of electronic transmission technology, 'facsimile' was applied to the process of sending copies over telephone lines. the clipped form 'fax' emerged in the 1970s as the technology became commercially widespread, representing a typical pattern in english where a long, technical term is abbreviated for common use.
Analysis
this word is a modern clipping and does not have analyzable morphemes based on its current spelling.
Examples
please send a fax of the signed contract to our office.
the old fax machine in the corner is no longer working.
i will fax you the itinerary as soon as it's confirmed.