telephone

Universal Words (also phone) noun, verb noun 1 [C,U] a system for talking to sb else over long distances, using wires or radio; a machine used for this: The telephone rang and Pat answered it. * You can reserve seats over the telephone. * I need to make a telephone call. * telephone lines / networks / services 2 [C] the part of the telephone that you hold in your hand and speak into SYNRECEIVER, HANDSET IDIOMS be on the telephone 1 to be using the telephone: He's on the telephone at the moment. * You're wanted (= sb wants to speak to you) on the telephone. 2 (BrE) to have a telephone in your home or place of work: We're not on the telephone at the cottage. verb (formal, especially BrE) to speak to sb by telephone SYNPHONE, CALL [V] Please write or telephone for details. * He telephoned to say he'd be late. * [VN] You can telephone your order 24 hours a day. * I was about to telephone the police. -< PHONE