German word

Telefon

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈteːləfoːn/

Meaning

  • neuter nounphone

Example

Am Telefon hat sie viel geredet.

She talked a lot on the phone.

Illustration for Telefon (phone)

More examples

Kannst du bitte ans Telefon gehen?

Can you please answer the phone?

Core concept

A ringing device that links speakers who are in different places.

Common phrases

  • am Telefon

    on the phone

  • ans Telefon gehen

    answer the phone

  • das Telefon abnehmen

    pick up the phone

Similar words

Handy: A portable phone that fits easily in a pocket or bag.
Smartphone: An advanced mobile phone for apps, internet, and other functions.
Anruf: An instance of calling someone and talking by phone.
Festnetz: A telephone connection installed in a home or workplace.

Definition in German

ein Gerät, mit dem man über große Entfernungen mit der Stimme sprechen kann

Word origin

Telefon is a borrowing transmitted through French téléphone from Greek elements meaning 'far' and 'voice'.

Usage tips

  • For calling a person, German commonly uses anrufen with an accusative object, as in jemanden anrufen.

Related words

Word lists with this word