telephone

[tel-uh-fohn]

noun

1. an apparatus, system, or process for transmission of sound or speech to a distant point, especially by an electric device.

verb (used with object)

telephoned, telephoning 

1. to speak to or summon (a person) by telephone.

2. to send (a message) by telephone.

verb (used without object)

telephoned, telephoning 

1. to send a message by telephone.

telephone

/ ˈtɛlɪˌfəʊn, ˌtɛlɪˈfɒnɪk /

noun

1. 1. Also called: telephone set. an electrical device for transmitting speech, consisting of a microphone and receiver mounted on a handset

   2. ( as modifier )

      a telephone receiver

2. 1. a worldwide system of communications using telephones. The microphone in one telephone converts sound waves into electrical signals that are transmitted along a telephone wire or by radio to one or more distant sets, the receivers of which reconvert the incoming signal into the original sound

   2. ( as modifier )

      a telephone exchange

      a telephone call

3. See telephone box

verb

1. to call or talk to (a person) by telephone

2. to transmit (a recorded message, radio or television programme, or other information) by telephone, using special transmitting and receiving equipment

Other Word Forms

• telephoner noun
• telephonically adverb
• telephonic adjective
• pretelephone adjective
• retelephone verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of telephone¹

First recorded in 1825–35; tele- ¹ + -phone

Example Sentences

A cellphone video he recorded shows a towering column of flame, taller than a nearby telephone pole, billowing and rippling.

From Salon

It said she was instead provided with the number for an out-of-hours telephone line, which the inquest heard was not answered on several occasions.

From BBC

Bored, with her infant wards asleep, Debbie decided to take a chance and telephone the desert.

From Los Angeles Times

We also reached her by telephone in Uganda's capital, Kampala, where she is waiting to deliver her child.

From BBC

When he heard the news — relayed via telephone — Anderson grew quiet.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• call up 
• contact 
• dial 
• phone