I. ˈte-lə-ˌfōn noun
Usage: often attributive
Date: 1844
: an instrument for reproducing sounds at a distance ; specifically : one in which sound is converted into electrical impulses for transmission (as by wire)
II. verb
( -phoned ; -phon·ing )
Date: 1877
transitive verb
1. : to speak to or attempt to reach by telephone
2. : to send by telephone
intransitive verb
: to communicate by telephone
• tele·phon·er noun