Robocalling: meaning, definitions and examples
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robocalling
[ ˈroʊboʊˌkɔːlɪŋ ]
telemarketing calls
Robocalling refers to the automated process of placing calls using a computerized system that delivers a pre-recorded message to the recipient. It is often used for telemarketing, political campaigning, and public service announcements. While it can be efficient for businesses to reach a large audience, robocalling has also been associated with a high volume of unwanted and potentially fraudulent calls, leading to regulations in various countries. Many individuals view robocalls as intrusive, and their prevalence has increased with advancing technology.
Synonyms
automated calling, pre-recorded message, telephone solicitation
Examples of usage
- I received a robocalling about a warranty extension.
- Robocalling often disrupts dinner time.
- Many people are frustrated with robocalling scams.
- The FCC is working to reduce robocalling incidents.
Translations
Translations of the word "robocalling" in other languages:
🇵🇹 chamada automática
🇮🇳 स्वचालित कॉल
🇩🇪 Automatisierter Anruf
🇮🇩 panggilan otomatis
🇺🇦 робо-дзвінки
🇵🇱 automatyczne połączenia
🇯🇵 ロボコール
🇫🇷 appel automatisé
🇪🇸 llamada automática
🇹🇷 otomatik arama
🇰🇷 로보콜
🇸🇦 الاتصال الآلي
🇨🇿 automatizovaný hovor
🇸🇰 automatizované volanie
🇨🇳 自动拨号
🇸🇮 samodejni klic
🇮🇸 sjálfvirkur símtal
🇰🇿 автоматты қоңырау
🇬🇪 ავტომატური ზარი
🇦🇿 avtomatik zəng
🇲🇽 llamada automática
Etymology
The term 'robocalling' is derived from the combination of 'robot' and 'calling.' The word 'robot' originates from the Czech word 'robota,' which means forced labor or work, and was first introduced in Karel Čapek's 1920 play 'R.U.R.' (Rossum's Universal Robots). The term 'calling' in this sense relates to the action of making a telephone call. Robocalls became more prevalent with the advancement of telecommunications technology, particularly in the late 20th century and early 21st century, as businesses sought to automate their outreach processes. Regulations, such as the Telephone Consumer Protection Act in the U.S., were established in response to the increase in unsolicited robocalls, particularly as they shifted from legitimate marketing to misleading and harassing tactics. As technology evolves, the language surrounding robocalls continues to adapt, reflecting broader societal concerns about privacy and consumer protection.