Meaning & Definition of word "Dial"

Dial

/daɪl/

1. A circular plate or scale marked to indicate a measurement or to show the setting of a device.
- Example: She turned the dial on the oven to preheat it to 350 degrees.
2. The face of a clock or watch showing the time.
- Example: He checked the dial and saw that he was running late.
3. A device in a telephone for selecting numbers by rotating or pressing.
- Example: He picked up the old rotary phone and began to dial the number.

1. To operate a dial or device to input a number or setting.
- Example: Please dial the emergency number if you need help.
2. To make a call on a telephone by entering a number.
- Example: I will dial her phone number to see if she's home.

Middle English diale, from Latin dialis, meaning 'daily' or 'of a day'.

speed dial:

A function on a telephone that allows users to call a specific number with a single press or turn.

dial in:

To make a connection by telephone, especially to a conference call.

dial back:

To reduce or decrease something.

telephone:

A device that allows communication over distances using electrical signals.

gauge:

An instrument for measuring or testing.

knob:

A rounded handle on a door or drawer, often used to control devices.

Meaning: To call someone on the phone.

Example Sentence: I'll just dial up Sarah to see if she's coming.

Meaning: To adjust something to a certain setting.

Example Sentence: He dialed down the brightness of the screen.