In the realm of media, television is often referred to by several terms that reflect its role, influence, and the context in which it is discussed. Here are some of the most common terms used to describe television in media:

1. Broadcast Media: This term encompasses television as well as radio, emphasizing the method of transmitting content over the airwaves to a wide audience. Television is a key component of broadcast media, which is distinguished from print media (newspapers, magazines) and digital media (internet-based content).

2. The Small Screen: This is a colloquial term used to differentiate television from movies, which are traditionally shown on the "big screen" in cinemas. It highlights the domestic and more intimate viewing experience of television.

3. The Tube: A slang term that originated from the cathode ray tube (CRT) technology used in older television sets. Although modern TVs no longer use CRT technology, the term persists in popular culture.

4. The Boob Tube: Another slang term, often used pejoratively, to suggest that television is a mindless form of entertainment. It plays on the idea that watching TV requires little intellectual engagement.

5. The Idiot Box: Similar to "the boob tube," this term is used to criticize television for being a passive and unstimulating medium. It implies that watching TV can make viewers intellectually lazy.

6. Visual Media: This term is used to describe any medium that relies on visual content, including television, film, and online videos. It emphasizes the importance of imagery and visual storytelling in television.

7. Linear Television: This term refers to traditional TV broadcasting, where programs are scheduled at specific times and viewers watch them as they are broadcast. It contrasts with on-demand and streaming services, where viewers can choose what to watch and when.

8. Streaming Television: With the rise of platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, television content is increasingly consumed via streaming. This term refers to TV shows and movies that are delivered over the internet, allowing for on-demand viewing.

9. Cable Television: This refers to TV services that are delivered through coaxial or fiber-optic cables, as opposed to over-the-air broadcasts. Cable TV often offers a wider range of channels and specialized content compared to traditional broadcast TV.

10. Satellite Television: This term describes TV services that are delivered via communication satellites, providing a wide range of channels and often covering areas where cable TV is not available.

11. Terrestrial Television: This refers to TV broadcasts that are transmitted over the air using radio waves from terrestrial (land-based) transmitters. It is the traditional method of TV broadcasting and is still widely used.

12. Prime Time: This term refers to the time slot during which television networks schedule their most popular and high-rated shows, typically in the evening when the largest audience is available.

13. Daytime Television: This refers to TV programming that is broadcast during the daytime hours, often targeting specific demographics such as stay-at-home parents or retirees. It includes genres like soap operas, talk shows, and game shows.

14. Late-Night Television: This term describes TV programming that airs late at night, often featuring comedy shows, talk shows, and variety programs. It caters to a different audience than prime-time or daytime TV.

15. Reality TV: A genre of television programming that documents unscripted real-life situations, often featuring ordinary people rather than professional actors. It has become a significant part of the television landscape.

16. Scripted Television: This term refers to TV shows that are written and performed by actors following a script. It includes genres like dramas, comedies, and sitcoms, and contrasts with unscripted or reality TV.

17. News Media: Television is a crucial part of the news media, providing visual and auditory coverage of current events, often in real-time. News channels and programs are a staple of television broadcasting.

18. Public Broadcasting: This refers to television services that are funded by the public, often through government support or viewer donations. Public broadcasting aims to provide educational, cultural, and informative content without commercial influence.

19. Commercial Television: This term describes TV networks and channels that are funded primarily through advertising revenue. It contrasts with public broadcasting and often features a mix of entertainment, news, and sports programming.

20. Pay-TV: This refers to television services that require a subscription fee, such as cable or satellite TV, as well as premium channels like HBO or Showtime. It offers access to a wider range of content, including exclusive shows and movies.

Each of these terms highlights different aspects of television's role in media, from its technological foundations to its cultural impact and evolving formats. Television continues to be a dominant force in the media landscape, adapting to changes in technology and viewer preferences while maintaining its central place in global culture.