Phone

Definition

Phone can function as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to a device used for voice communication over long distances, commonly short for "telephone." As a verb, it means to call someone using a telephone.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /foʊn/
• Respelling: FOHN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fəʊn/
• Respelling: FOHN

Etymology

The word "phone" is a shortening of "telephone," derived from the Greek words "tele" (far) and "phōnē" (voice or sound). The term entered English in the 19th century with the invention of the telephone.

Derivatives

• Telephone (noun, verb)
• Smartphone (noun)
• Phoning (verb)
• Phoneless (adjective)
• Phoner (noun, informal)

Synonyms

• Call
• Mobile
• Cellphone

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "phone" is commonly used to refer to modern communication devices or the act of calling someone. For example, "I left my phone at home" or "She will phone you later."

Related Terms

• Telecommunication: Communication over a distance using electronic systems.
• Landline: A telephone that operates through a wired connection.
• Voicemail: A system that records messages for later playback.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A device for voice communication: Refers to an instrument used to transmit and receive sound over distances.
  • Example: "I need to charge my phone."
• A mobile device for communication and applications: Refers to modern smartphones with advanced features beyond calling.
  • Example: "He bought the latest phone on the market."

Verb

• To call using a telephone: Refers to the act of contacting someone through a telecommunication device.
  • Example: "She phoned her friend to confirm the plans."