The answerphone, also known as an answering machine, is a device that records incoming telephone messages when the recipient is unable to answer the phone. It has become an essential part of modern communication technology, allowing people to stay connected even when they are not available to take calls.
Definitions
An answerphone is a device that records incoming telephone messages when the recipient is unable to take the call. It is an automated system that allows callers to leave a message for the recipient to listen to later.
Origin
The answerphone was invented in the 1930s by Willy Müller, a German engineer. The original device used magnetic tape to record messages, and it was only available to businesses and wealthy individuals. It was not until the 1970s that answerphones became widely available to the general public.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an answerphone is “a device that records messages left by callers when the person being called is unable to answer the phone.”
Merriam-Webster defines an answerphone as “a telephone answering machine that records messages from callers.”
Associations
The answerphone is associated with modern communication technology and the ability to stay connected even when we are not available to take calls. It is also associated with convenience and efficiency, allowing us to receive messages at our convenience.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for answerphone include answering machine, voicemail, and message recorder.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for answerphone, but some related terms might include live answering service or manual message taking.
The same root words
The word “phone” comes from the Greek word “phōnē,” meaning “voice” or “sound.” The word “answer” comes from the Old English word “andswaru,” meaning “a reply or response.”
Example Sentences
- “I’m sorry I missed your call, but you can leave a message on my answerphone.”
- “I always forget to check my answerphone, but I’m trying to get better about it.”
- “The answerphone was invented to make communication more efficient and convenient.”