narrow-band
UK[ˈnærəʊ bænd]US[ˈnæroʊ bænd]
adj
Relating to or using a narrow range of frequencies, especially in radio or telecommunications.
n
A narrow range of frequencies used for a particular purpose, such as a radio channel.
Morpheme Breakdown
narrow
band
narrow
limited
band
range
Etymology
The term 'narrow-band' is a modern technical compound formed from two native English words. 'Narrow' originates from the Proto-Germanic narwaz, meaning 'tight' or 'constricted', a concept that has remained remarkably stable. 'Band' derives from the Proto-Germanic bindaną (to bind), evolving through Old Norse to signify a strip or a range, as in a strip of material or a range of values. In the 20th century, with the advent of radio technology, these two words were logically combined. The compound literally means a 'constricted range', perfectly describing a communication channel that uses a limited portion of the frequency spectrum, in contrast to a 'wide-band' signal.
Analysis
Structure: narrow (limited) + band (range)
- narrow: From Old English nearu (narrow, constricted). In this compound, it functions as an adjective meaning 'limited in width or scope'.
- band: From Old Norse band (something that binds, a strip). In this compound, it functions as a noun meaning 'a range or strip of frequencies'.
Examples
The device operates on a narrow-band frequency to avoid interference.
Early internet connections were often made through narrow-band dial-up modems.
This sensor uses narrow-band infrared light to detect specific gases.