dial

[ˈdaɪəl]

dial Definition

• 1. a round or circular control on a machine or instrument
• 2. to make a phone call by pressing the buttons on a telephone
• 3. to select a number, program, etc. on a machine by turning a dial

Using dial: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dial" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She dialed his number and waited for him to answer.

• Example

  The radio has a dial that you can use to change the station.

• Example

  He turned the dial to adjust the temperature.

• Example

  The watch has a dial that shows the time.

dial Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dial

• knob
• button
• call
• phone
• ring
• switch

Phrases with dial

• dial up

  to connect to the internet using a telephone line and a modem

  Example

  I used to have to dial up to get online.

• dial down

  to reduce the intensity or level of something

  Example

  We need to dial down the volume on the music.

• dial in

  to adjust something to the correct or desired setting

  Example

  I need to dial in the focus on my camera before taking the picture.

Origins of dial

from Middle English 'diall', from Old French 'cadran', from Latin 'cadranus', from Ancient Greek 'κάδρανος' (kádranos), meaning 'a sundial'

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Summary: dial in Brief

The term 'dial' [ˈdaɪəl] refers to a round or circular control on a machine or instrument, such as a knob or button. It also means to make a phone call by pressing the buttons on a telephone or to select a number or program on a machine by turning a dial. Examples include 'She dialed his number and waited for him to answer.' and 'The radio has a dial that you can use to change the station.'