<P> `` Ham radio '' is a popular term for amateur radio , derived from `` ham '' as an informal name for an amateur radio operator . The use first appeared in the United States during the opening decade of the 20th century -- for example , in 1909 , Robert A. Morton reported overhearing an amateur radio transmission which included the comment : `` Say , do you know the fellow who is putting up a new station out your way ? I think he is a ham . '' However , the term did not gain widespread usage in the United States until around 1920 , after which it slowly spread to other English - speaking countries . </P>
where did the term ham radio come from
an informal name for an amateur radio operator