1
: the science or process of telemetering data
2
: data transmitted by telemetry
3

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Telemetry is used to obtain data on the internal functioning of missiles, rockets, unmanned planes, satellites, and probes, providing data on such factors as position, altitude, and speed as well as conditions like temperature, air pressure, wind speed, and radiation. Weather forecasters rely on telemetry to map weather patterns. Astronauts on the space shuttle are monitored with telemetry that measures and transmits readings on their blood pressure, respiration, and heart rates. Similar kinds of telemetry are used by biologists to study animals in the wild and keep track of their populations and movements. Telemetry is also widely used in modern agriculture, often to regulate irrigation.

Examples of telemetry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For many, that means building or upgrading existing telemetry systems. William Bain, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 This includes rocket stages, ground support equipment, propellant-loading hardware, flight control systems, range-safety electronics, and telemetry-tracking units. David Szondy august 15, New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2026 Korem said the Jets will expand their use of 3D motion capture, force plates and other telemetry tools to better understand movement and physical readiness. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 11 Aug. 2026 Core Web APIs, Angular front ends, telemetry monitoring, and modern authentication frameworks. William Jones, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for telemetry

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of telemetry was in 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Telemetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/telemetry. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

telemetry

noun
1
: the process of transmitting data by telemeter
2
: data transmitted by telemetry

Medical Definition

telemetry

noun
plural telemetries
1
: the science or process of telemetering data
2
: data transmitted by telemetry
3

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