Remote: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
June 28, 2025

1. Remote (adjective): Situated far away in distance, time, or relation.
2. Remote (adjective): Having little connection or relevance to something.
3. Remote (adjective): Operating or occurring at a distance, such as by technology.
4. Remote (noun): A device used to control a machine or system from a distance.
5. Remote (noun): A location or place that is distant or isolated.

The term "remote" has versatile meanings, often associated with distance, technology, and isolation. Its usage spans from describing physical spaces to advanced technological operations.

"Remote" Definition: What Does "Remote" Mean?

"Remote" conveys the idea of distance or separation in various contexts. Here are its primary meanings and their applications.

Definition of "Remote": Physical Distance

As an adjective, "remote" refers to something located far away, such as "a remote village."

Definition of "Remote": Lack of Connection

It also describes something that is unrelated or has a weak connection, as in "a remote possibility."

Definition of "Remote": Technological Operations

"Remote" signifies operations or activities conducted at a distance, often through technology, such as "remote learning."

Definition of "Remote": Device for Control

As a noun, "remote" refers to a device used to control systems, such as televisions or garage doors, from a distance.

Definition of "Remote": Isolated Location

It can also mean a location that is distant or secluded, such as "a remote island."

Parts of Speech

"Remote" functions as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes distance or separation. As a noun, it refers to devices or locations associated with distance.

How to Pronounce "Remote"?

The word "remote" is pronounced as "ri-MOHT." It has two syllables, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable "ri" sounds like the beginning of "ribbon" with a short 'i' sound, while the second syllable "moht" rhymes with "boat" or "note." When pronouncing "remote," ensure the first syllable is unstressed and quick, while giving more emphasis to the longer "moht" sound in the second syllable.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /rɪˈmoʊt/

Synonyms of "Remote": Other Ways to Say "Remote"

Synonyms for "remote" vary depending on its use, whether describing distance, technology, or separation.

  • Distant
  • Isolated
  • Faraway
  • Secluded
  • Inaccessible
  • Unlikely
  • Disconnected
  • Obscure
  • Outlying
  • Removed

Antonyms of "Remote": Other Ways to Say "Remote"

Antonyms emphasize closeness, relevance, or direct control.

  • Close
  • Nearby
  • Connected
  • Relevant
  • Accessible
  • Immediate
  • Adjacent
  • Central
  • Local
  • Intimate

Examples of "Remote" in a Sentence

Using "remote" in sentences showcases its versatility across different contexts. Here are ten examples:

1. They spent their vacation in a remote cabin deep in the mountains.
2. The likelihood of rain today is remote, but it's always good to be prepared.
3. Many companies now offer remote work options for employees.
4. The remote control for the TV is missing again.
5. The expedition reached a remote part of the jungle rarely visited by humans.
6. His behavior has only a remote connection to the actual problem.
7. The class was conducted through remote learning due to the pandemic.
8. The island was so remote that it could only be accessed by boat.
9. She used the remote to adjust the volume without leaving her seat.
10. There's a remote chance that we’ll win the lottery this year.

Frequency of Use

According to corpus data, "remote" has shown steady usage throughout the 20th century, but has surged dramatically since the 2000s with the advent of remote computing, remote controls, and remote work arrangements. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 caused a notable spike in frequency as remote work became a necessity for many organizations worldwide.

Variants of "Remote"

Variants and related forms of "remote" adapt its meaning for specific contexts or grammatical needs.

1. Remoteness (noun): The state of being remote or distant.
2. Remotely (adverb): Describing actions done from a distance or the absence of close connection.

Related Terms to "Remote"

Exploring related terms enhances understanding of its applications across disciplines.

1. Distant
2. Isolated
3. Secluded
4. Telecommuting
5. Virtual
6. Control
7. Far-flung
8. Probable
9. Inaccessible
10. Removed

Etymology: History and Origins of "Remote"

The word "remote" entered English in the early 15th century from the Latin word "remotus," meaning "moved back" or "removed," which was the past participle of the verb "removere" (to remove). The term initially conveyed the sense of physical distance or separation, as evidenced in texts from the 1400s that described faraway lands as "remote regions." The technological application of "remote" emerged much later, with "remote control" first appearing in the late 19th century for early electrical systems and becoming commonplace with the television remote controls of the 1950s.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Remote"

"Remote" has derivatives and compounds that extend its meaning across various contexts.

1. Remote control: A device used to operate systems or machines from a distance.
2. Remote work: Employment conducted from a location outside of a traditional office.
3. Remote access: The ability to control or retrieve information from a distant computer or network.

Common Misspellings of "Remote"

Misspellings of "remote" are rare but may include typographical errors.

1. Remoat
2. Ramote
3. Remoute

10 Idioms Similar to "Remote"

Idioms that convey distance, separation, or improbability align with the concept of "remote."

1. Out in the sticks
2. Far and away
3. A long shot
4. Beyond the pale
5. Miles away
6. Out of reach
7. In the middle of nowhere
8. Off the beaten path
9. A world apart
10. Light-years away

10 Common Questions About "Remote"

Here are some commonly asked questions about "remote":

1. What does "remote" mean?

It refers to something situated far away or operating at a distance.

2. How is "remote" used in technology?

It describes operations or access done from a distance, such as "remote control" or "remote work."

3. What does "remote location" mean?

It refers to a place that is distant or isolated from populated areas.

4. What is a "remote control"?

A device used to operate machines, such as TVs or drones, from a distance.

5. How does "remote" relate to probability?

It can describe something unlikely or with little chance of occurring, such as "a remote possibility."

6. What is "remote work"?

It refers to working from a location other than the office, often from home.

7. What does "remotely" mean?

It means from a distance or not closely related, as in "remotely possible."

8. Can "remote" describe emotions?

Yes, it can describe emotional detachment or a lack of closeness.

9. What is "remote access" in computing?

It is the ability to control or retrieve data from a computer or network at a distant location.

10. Is "remote" always physical?

No, it can also describe abstract or metaphorical distances, such as "remote chance."

Conclusion

"Remote" describes distance, separation, or technological operations, making it a versatile term in modern language. Its relevance in contemporary contexts, such as remote work and access, underscores its importance. Explore more word definitions to enhance your linguistic knowledge.

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