First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1dial
noun di·al \ˈdī(-ə)l\
Definition of DIAL
1
: the face of a sundial
2
obsolete : timepiece
3
: the graduated face of a timepiece
4
a : a face upon which some measurement is registered usually by means of graduations and a pointer <the thermometer dial reads 70°F> b : a device that may be operated to make electrical connections or to regulate the operation of a machine <a radio dial> <a telephone dial>
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Origin of DIAL
Middle English dyal, from Medieval Latin dialis clock wheel revolving daily, from Latin dies day — more at deity
2dial
verb
: to select (a series of numbers) on a telephone by turning a dial or pushing buttons
: to make a telephone call to (a person, business, etc.)
di·aled or di·alleddi·al·ing or di·al·ling
Full Definition of DIAL
transitive verb
1
: to measure with a dial
2
a : to manipulate a device (as a dial) so as to operate, regulate, or select <dial your favorite program> <dialed the wrong number> b : call 1m(1) <dialed the office>
intransitive verb
1
: to manipulate a dial
2
: to make a telephone call or connection
— di·al·er noun
See dial defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DIAL
1653
3dial
abbreviation
DIAL[1] Defined for Kids
1dial
noun di·al \ˈdī-əl\
Definition of DIAL for Kids
1
: the face of a watch or clock
2
: sundial
3
: a usually flat round part of a piece of equipment with numbers or marks to show some measurement usually by means of a pointer <the dial of a pressure gauge>
4
: a part of a machine or device (as a radio) that may be turned to operate or adjust it
2dial
verb
di·aled or di·alleddi·al·ing or di·al·ling
Definition of DIAL for Kids
: to use a knob, button, or other control to operate or select
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