a station associated with a network by contract to broadcast the network’s programs.

the audience estimate reported by Nielsen and Arbitron for television and radio. It provides the average number of persons or households who watched/listened for at least 5 minutes of the 15 minute segment being reported.

the specific geography where a media vehicle has its coverage. In broadcast, coverage usually describes the area to which the station’s signal extends. In print, coverage usually means the circulation area.

an advertising pod positioned next to a particular TV or radio program. Also called commercial break positions.

a statement, usually notarized, accompanying station invoices which confirms that the commercial actually ran at the time stated on the invoice.

the first broadcast of a commercial; also refers to the exact date of a particular TV or radio program.

unsold units of time available for broadcasters to sell to advertisers. Also refers to a station’s submission of programs and rating estimates for advertising planning and buying.

additional TV or radio spot provided to an advertiser at no charge to raise the overall audience delivery of the schedule.

a broadcast commercial aired between two programs instead of in the middle of one program.

an industry-accepted calendar used mainly for accounting and billing purposes. Weeks run Monday-Sunday, and each month is four or five weeks long.