telethon

noun

tele·​thon ˈte-lə-ˌthän 

: a long television program usually to solicit funds especially for a charity

Examples of telethon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Organized with the help of George Clooney, the telethon brought a number of artists together, including Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, U2, Billy Joel, Neil Young, Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, and dozens of other performers and celebrities. — Krystie Lee Yandoli, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

Her appearance at Fenway was part of a telethon supporting The Jimmy Fund for cancer research. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Pierron, who recalled not being able to watch the 1986 World Cup final in Olathe because it had been preempted by a telethon, bought season tickets right away. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026

Carroll also enjoyed doing stories about Make a Wish and being part of their telethon to raise money. — Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 18 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

tele- + -athon

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

telethon

noun

tele·​thon ˈtel-ə-ˌthän 

: a long television program usually to raise funds for a charity