Telephone

Definition

Telephone refers to a communication device that transmits and receives sound, typically voices, over distances using electrical signals. It can also describe the act of making a call using such a device.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛl.əˌfoʊn/
• Respelling: TEL-uh-fohn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛl.ɪˌfəʊn/
• Respelling: TEL-i-fohn

Etymology

The word "telephone" originates from the Greek words "tele," meaning "far," and "phōnē," meaning "voice" or "sound." The term was coined in the 19th century to describe devices for long-distance voice communication, particularly following the invention of Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone in 1876.

Derivatives

• Telephonic (adjective)
• Telephony (noun)
• Telephoned (verb, past tense)
• Telephoning (verb, present participle)
• Telephone call (noun)

Synonyms

• Phone
• Landline
• Receiver

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "telephone" is used to refer to the device itself, such as "The telephone rang loudly." As a verb, it is used to describe the act of making a call, for example, "She telephoned him to confirm the meeting."

Related Terms

• Telecommunication: The transmission of information over a distance by electronic means.
• Mobile phone: A portable telephone that operates wirelessly.
• Operator: A person or system that facilitates telephone calls.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A device for transmitting sound over distances: Refers to an instrument that allows two-way voice communication.
  • Example: "The telephone on the desk is connected to the office network."
• A communication system using such devices: Refers to the network and technology enabling telephonic communication.
  • Example: "The telephone system was down due to the storm."

Verb

• To make a phone call to someone: Refers to contacting another person using a telephone.
  • Example: "He telephoned his manager to report the issue."
• To convey information via a phone call: Describes using the telephone to share details or updates.
  • Example: "She telephoned the news to her friend immediately."