[mass noun]a system for transmitting sound, typically voices, over a distance using wire or radio, by converting acoustic vibrations to electrical signals 电话 ■[count noun]an instrument used as part of such a system, typically a single unit including a handset with a transmitting microphone and a set of numbered buttons by which a connection can be made to another such instrument 电话机
verb
[with obj.]ring or speak to (someone) using the telephone 打电话给 he had just finished telephoning his wife. 他刚给他妻子打完电话。 ■[no obj.]make a telephone call 打电话,通电话 she telephoned for help. 她打电话求助。 ■send (a message) by telephone 用电话传送(信息) Barbara had telephoned the news. 芭芭拉用电话把消息传了出去。