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Dial - up-Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A dial is a circular control or display on a device, such as a clock or radio, used to adjust settings or show measurements by rotating or pointing to specific values.

dial

/ˈdaɪəl/ /ˈdaɪəl/

Definition:

A marked face of a clock or device showing numbers or symbols for measurement or selection.

Synonyms:

knob, selector, control, tuner

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

ignore, disconnect

Common Collocations:

dial tone, dial a number, speed dial, rotary dial

Derivatives:

dialed, dialing, dialer

Usage Tips:

Use "dial" as a verb for adjusting settings or calling by phone; as a noun for the face of a device.

Common Phrases:

dial down, dial up, redial the number

Etymology:

From Latin "dialis" (daily), referring to sundials marking time; later applied to mechanical devices.

Examples:

  • 1. She turned the dial to adjust the radio volume.
  • 2. Can you dial the number for me?
  • 3. The old phone has a rotary dial.
  • 4. He quickly used speed dial to call his friend.

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