Phoning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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phoning

[หˆfoสŠ.nษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

making a call

Phoning refers to the act of making a telephone call to communicate with someone. It can also imply the use of a cellphone or any device capable of voice transmission. Generally, this term encompasses any form of telecommunication using a phone.

Synonyms

calling, contacting, ringing.

Examples of usage

  • I will be phoning my friend later.
  • She spent the afternoon phoning clients.
  • He was phoning his parents to check in.
  • We are phoning the restaurant to make a reservation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • The first successful phone call was made by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876.
  • Smartphones today combine calling with internet access, apps, and cameras, changing how we communicate.
  • VoIP technology allows phone calls to be made over the internet, making it more affordable.

Cultural Impact

  • Phone communication has reshaped social interactions, making it easier to stay in touch across distances.
  • Certain cultures favor phone calls over texting, viewing it as a more personal connection.
  • The phrase 'I'll give you a ring' is commonly used to indicate a phone call will happen soon.

Psychology

  • Hearing a friendโ€™s voice can trigger the release of oxytocin, fostering feelings of happiness and connection.
  • Phone conversations can reduce feelings of loneliness, especially during times of isolation.
  • People often feel more comfortable sharing personal stories during a phone call than through text.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often use phone calls as dramatic plot devices to create suspense or deliver important news.
  • Songs frequently mention calling as a way to express love or longing, like in the hit 'Call Me Maybe'.
  • Phone calls have been depicted humorously in sitcoms, showing the quirks of miscommunication.

Origin of 'phoning'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'phone', meaning 'voice' or 'sound'.
  • Phoning dates back to the late 19th century, coinciding with the invention of the telephone.
  • The verb form gained popularity in the 20th century as phone technology advanced.

The word 'phone' originates from the Greek word 'phonฤ“', meaning 'voice' or 'sound'. It came into widespread use in the late 19th century with the advent of telecommunication technologies, particularly the telephone invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. Initially, the term 'telephone' was used to describe the device, comprising the Greek roots 'tele' (meaning 'far') and 'phone' (meaning 'voice'). Over time, the word 'phone' became a popular truncation, leading to the verb form 'phoning'. This evolution reflects the shift in society's communication methods, as phones transformed from a novelty to a fundamental tool in everyday life. The verb 'phoning' represents the ongoing importance of direct voice communication in our increasingly digital world.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,917, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.