Telephone  —n. 1 apparatus for transmitting sound (esp. Speech) to a distance, esp. By using optical or electrical signals. 2 handset etc. Used in this. 3 system of communication using a network of telephones. —v. (-ning) 1 speak to or send (a message) by telephone. 2 make a telephone call.  on the telephone having or using a telephone. Over the telephone using the telephone.  telephonic adj. Telephonically adv.