Definitions

1. noun

An electronic device for communicating by means of the human voice over a distance, especially by transmitting the voice through a wire or radio.

“She answered the telephone and took the message.”

2. verb

To communicate by means of the telephone.

“Can you telephone your brother and ask him to come over?”

3. noun

The business of operating a telephone system, especially a public telephone system.

“The telephone company is responsible for maintaining the network.”