n. & v.
--n.
1. an apparatus for transmitting sound (esp. speech) to a distance by wire or cord or radio, esp. by converting acoustic vibrations to electrical signals.
2 a transmitting and receiving instrument used in this.
3 a system of communication using a network of telephones.
--v.
1. tr. speak to (a person) by telephone.
2 tr. send (a message) by telephone.
3 intr. make a telephone call.
Phrases and idioms:
on the telephone 1 having a telephone.
2 by use of or using the telephone. over the telephone by use of or using the telephone. telephone book telephone directory. telephone box Brit. telephone booth. telephone booth (or kiosk) a public booth or enclosure from which telephone calls can be made. telephone call CALL n. 4. telephone directory a book listing telephone subscribers and numbers in a particular area. telephone exchange EXCHANGE n. 3. telephone number a number assigned to a particular telephone and used in making connections to it. telephone operator esp. US an operator in a telephone exchange.
Derivatives:
telephoner n. telephonic adj. telephonically adv.