1 phone
Pronounced:
/ˈfoʊn/
Function:
nounInflected forms:
plural phonesMeaning:
1 : telephone: such as a [noncount] : a system that uses wires and radio signals to send people's voices over long distances ▪ We spoke by phone earlier. ▪ The voice on the other end of the phone [=line] was familiar, but I couldn't place it. ▪ a phone bill/company/conversation ▪ I just have to make a quick phone call before we leave. ▪ You can order over the phone. [=by calling on the telephone] b [count] : a device that is connected to a telephone system and that you use to listen or speak to someone who is somewhere else ▪ The phone has been ringing all morning! ▪ He slammed the phone [=receiver] down and stormed out of the room. ▪ Our new phone is cordless. ▪ I left the phone off the hook. —see pictures at office, telephone; see also cell phone, mobile phone, pay phone, wireless phone
2 phones [plural] : headphones
2 phones [plural] : headphones
on the phone
1 : using a telephone to talk to someone ▪ Can you see who's at the door? I'm on the phone. ▪ I was on the phone with my sister until late last night.
2 Brit : connected to a telephone system ▪ How many households aren't on the phone?
2 Brit : connected to a telephone system ▪ How many households aren't on the phone?