¦ noun
1. a thick rope of wire or hemp, typically used for construction, mooring ships, and towing vehicles.
the chain of a ship's anchor.
(also cable moulding) Architecture a moulding resembling twisted rope.
2. an insulated wire or wires having a protective casing and used for transmitting electricity or telecommunication signals.
3. a cablegram.
4. Nautical a length of 200 yards (182.9 m) or (in the US) 240 yards (219.4 m).
¦ verb
1. dated send a cablegram to.
2. provide (an area) with power lines or other equipment necessary for cable television.
Origin
ME: from an Anglo-Norman Fr. var. of OFr. chable, from late L. capulum 'halter'.