Word of the Day: Dial
When you use a phone, you “dial” the number. This word comes from the dial (the round thing that spins around) that we all used to use on old phones–before there were phones with buttons that needed to be pushed.
The dial has holes in it. For each number, you put your finger in the dial and move it around until it stops on that metal thing you see in the picture. (above)
Even though most phones today have buttons or a keypad, we still use the word “dial” when making phone calls. It’s usually a verb:
- What number did you dial?
- Did you dial the right number?
- I thought I had dialed the right number, but I think I made a mistake.
- I’m sorry. I dialed the wrong number.
- She must have dialed a five instead of a six.
- Can you dial a number for me, please?
- You can get some assistance if you dial the operator.
Note: This is one of those words that could go away with the passage of time and with changes in technology. For now, however, it’s good to know because many people still use it.
Essential English Dictionary
Visit the Popular English Words Beginning with D page to see the list of all words starting with letter D. For seeing the HiCafe dictionary, visit the Popular English Words with Meaning page.
