multiplex

[muhl-tuh-pleks]

adjective

1. having many parts or aspects.

   the multiplex problem of drug abuse.

2. manifold; multiple.

   the multiplex opportunities in high technology.

3. Telecommunications.,  of, relating to, or using equipment permitting the simultaneous transmission of two or more signals or messages over a single channel.

verb (used with object)

1. Telecommunications.

   1. to arrange (a circuit) for use by multiplex telegraphy, allowing multiple synchronous signals to be sent and received on a single telegraph wire.

   2. to transmit (two or more signals or messages) by a multiplex system, circuit, or the like, as in telegraph and telephone communication, or television and radio broadcasting.

verb (used without object)

1. to send several messages or signals simultaneously, as in telegraph and telephone communication, or television and radio broadcasting.

noun

1. a multiplex electronics system.

2. (in map making) a stereoscopic device that makes it possible to view pairs of aerial photographs in three dimensions.

3. Also called multiplex cinema. Also called multiplex theater. a group of two or more movie theaters on the same site or in the same building, especially a cluster of adjoining theaters.

multiplex

/ ˈmʌltɪˌplɛks /

noun

1. telecomm

   1. the use of a common communications channel for sending two or more messages or signals. In frequency-division multiplex the frequency band transmitted by the common channel is split into narrower bands each of which constitutes a distinct channel. In time-division multiplex different channels are established by intermittent connections to the common channel

   2. ( as modifier )

      a multiplex transmitter

2. 1. a purpose-built complex containing a number of cinemas and usually a restaurant or bar

   2. ( as modifier )

      a multiplex cinema

adjective

1. designating a method of map-making using three cameras to produce a stereoscopic effect

2. a less common word for multiple

verb

1. to send (messages or signals) or (of messages or signals) be sent by multiplex

Other Word Forms

• multiplexer noun
• multiplexor noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of multiplex¹

From Latin, dating back to 1550–60; multi-, -plex

Word History and Origins

Origin of multiplex¹

C16: from Latin: having many folds, from _multi- + plicāre to fold

Example Sentences

In our modern, hyper-digital era, consumer power transcends the multiplex and hits streaming right in the gut.

From Salon

Still, despite the hasty ending, this splashy comedy deserves to woo grown-ups back to the multiplex.

From Los Angeles Times

A wave of purple and hot pink hair and cartoon K-pop bops is taking over multiplexes.

From Los Angeles Times

So much of a movie’s marketing is still tied to theatrical releases, and multiplexes and studios continue to fight over how long a new movie should wait before it hits the streamers.

From Los Angeles Times

Stay hydrated and nourished, because your multiplex chaperone duties aren’t truly over until early August or so, when the fare turns distinctively adult-themed before going full prestige in the child-unfriendly zone of fall awards season.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• different 
• numerous 
• various