dial

di-al · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The face of a clock or watch marked with numbers or graduations.

  2. 2.

    A disk with numbered holes used on older telephones.

  3. 3.

    A disk or plate with a scale for measuring something.

  4. 4.

    To call a telephone number by turning a dial or pressing buttons.

  5. 5.

    To select or adjust by using a dial.

Related words

See also: dialed, dialing, telephone
Synonyms: control, face, gauge, knob

Etymology

From Medieval Latin dialis meaning "daily," from Latin dies meaning "day." Originally referred to sundials, which tell time using the sun's position. First recorded in English in the 15th century.