Dialer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dialer

[ˈdaɪələr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

phone app

A dialer is a software application or device used to initiate phone calls by entering the phone number directly on a keypad or touchscreen. It is commonly found on smartphones and landline phones.

Synonyms

calling application, phone app.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dialer

Used to refer to the specific interface or application feature where you can manually enter phone numbers to place a call. Often implies basic functionality without additional features.

  • I couldn't find John's number in my contacts, so I used the dialer to call him.
  • The phone's dialer is pretty straightforward and user-friendly.
phone app

A more casual term for the application on a smartphone that handles making and receiving calls. This term is commonly used in everyday conversations.

  • I need to check my missed calls in the phone app.
  • Can you open the phone app and call mom for me?
calling application

Refers to a broader application or software that includes various calling-related features, such as video calls, contact management, and call logs. Usually used in more technical or formal contexts.

  • The new calling application integrates well with our CRM system.
  • Many calling applications now support high-definition video calls.

Examples of usage

  • The dialer on my smartphone allows me to easily make calls.
  • She used the dialer on the landline phone to call her friend.
  • I prefer using the dialer on my phone rather than voice commands.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • With the advent of smartphones, the traditional dialer has evolved into a multifunctional app that includes features like contact lists and voicemail.
  • Voice dialing technology now allows users to make calls by speaking the contact's name, demonstrating how advancements have streamlined communication.

Cultural Impact

  • The invention of the telephone dial revolutionized how people communicate, shifting from face-to-face interactions to instant voice communication.
  • Dialers have been featured in countless films and TV shows, often symbolizing urgency or the need to connect in critical moments.

Psychology

  • Using a dialer can evoke feelings of connectivity and dependency, as it serves as a bridge between loved ones, especially in times of crisis.
  • The simplicity of dialing can create a sense of control over communication, which is crucial for mental well-being in stressful situations.

History

  • The first manual rotary dial was developed in the early 1900s, marking a significant shift in how telephone calls were made before keypads became popular.
  • By the late 20th century, touch-tone dialing replaced rotary dials, providing a faster and more efficient means of calling.

Origin of 'dialer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dial' originates from the Old French 'dialer,' meaning to measure, which is related to how a dial measures or connects calls.
  • In the early days of telephony, 'dialing' referred specifically to using a rotary dial, which had to be turned to select numbers.

The term 'dialer' originated from the word 'dial,' which refers to the circular disk or keypad used to input numbers on older telephones. With the advancement of technology, the dialer has evolved into a digital interface for making calls on modern communication devices.


See also: dialect.