noun
ground wave; terrestrial broadcast signal
Refers to radio or TV signals that travel along the ground, as opposed to satellite signals. Often used in contrast with 衛星放送.
地上波の電波は建物の影響を受けやすい。
Terrestrial broadcast signals are easily affected by buildings.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Used attributively with の to describe broadcasting that is not via satellite or cable, e.g., 地上波テレビ.
地上波の番組は無料で視聴できる。
Over-the-air programs can be watched for free.
ケーブルテレビ is cable TV, another alternative to terrestrial broadcasting.
Compound of 地上 (terrestrial, above ground) and 波 (wave).