TEDs

TEDs is a term used in different domains to refer to distinct concepts that share the same acronym. The most widely recognized usage is linked to the nonprofit organization known for TED Talks, while another common usage pertains to medical devices known as thromboembolic deterrent stockings.

In the context of the TED organization, TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design. Founded in 1984, the organization hosts conferences and curates a library of talks aimed at sharing ideas across disciplines. Since the mid-2000s, TED Talks have been widely distributed online, making short presentations by experts accessible to a global audience. The content covers a broad range of topics, and TED’s mission is often summarized as disseminating ideas worth spreading. In this sense, “TEDs” may refer informally to the various talks, conferences, or media produced by the organization.

In medicine, TEDs refers to thromboembolic deterrent stockings, commonly called TED stockings or TED hose. These elastic stockings provide graduated compression to the legs to help improve venous return and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, particularly during hospitalization, after surgery, or during extended periods of immobility. They are typically prescribed by clinicians, used as part of a broader strategy to prevent blood clots, and require proper sizing and application to avoid complications such as skin irritation or poor circulation.

Outside these areas, the acronym TEDs can denote other field-specific terms, with meaning determined by context.