What Does “Telephone” Mean?
In English, the word telephone (noun) refers to a device that transmits sound—especially the human voice—over long distances using electrical signals.
As a verb, to telephone means to call someone using a phone.
Pronunciation
/ˈtɛl.ɪ.fəʊn/ (British English) or /ˈtɛl.əˌfoʊn/ (American English)
Example Sentences
“She picked up the telephone and dialed her friend’s number.”
“I’ll telephone you as soon as I get home.”
A Brief History
The first practical telephone was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. Since then, telephones have evolved from bulky wired devices to today’s smartphones that fit in your pocket!
Fun Facts
- The word “telephone” comes from Greek: tele (far) + phone (voice).
- Before mobile phones, people used payphones on street corners to make calls.
- The first phone call ever made was from Bell to his assistant: “Mr. Watson, come here—I want to see you!”