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Definition of telegenic

telegenic

/ˌtɛləˈdʒɛnɪk/
tel · e · gen · ic

Adverb:telegenically
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telegenic Lexical Profile

telegenic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having an appearance or manner that is appealing or well suited to television.

Example

"The network hired a charismatic, telegenic host to anchor the evening news program."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for telegenic
Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

While 'photogenic' refers to looking attractive in still photographs, 'telegenic' specifically describes having an appearance, voice, and manner that come across well on television or video.

• Rhymes for telegenic

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 1930s as a blend of 'television' and 'photogenic'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Telegenic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/telegenic
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