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cell phone

/sɛl foʊn/
/ˈsɛlfəʊn/
IPA guide

Other forms: cell phones

A cell phone is a small communication device you can put in your pocket or bag and take with you anywhere you go. You may make plans with your friends by texting or calling them on your cell phone.

Cell phone is short for cellular telephone. The cellular part is a reference to the network on which these handy devices operate. The phone network is divided into geographical areas called "cells." Each cell has a tall tower that sends and receives wireless signals over radio waves, connecting people's phones within and across different cells. This allows wireless connection between cell phone users in the same town, neighboring states, or even in different countries.

Definitions of cell phone
  1. noun
    a hand-held mobile radiotelephone for use in an area divided into small sections, each with its own short-range transmitter/receiver
    see moresee less
    type of:
    radiophone, radiotelephone, wireless telephone
    a telephone that communicates by radio waves rather than along cables
Pronunciation
US
/sɛl foʊn/
UK
/ˈsɛlfəʊn/
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