cell phone

American  

[sel-fohn] / ˈsɛlˌfoʊn /

Or cellphone

noun

Telecommunications.

1. a wireless telephone using a system of low-powered radio transmitters, with each transmitter covering a distinct geographical area cell, and computer equipment to switch a call from one area to another, thus enabling broad-scale portable phone service.

2. such a wireless telephone that has other functions, as text messaging or internet access.

3. mobile phone.

---

cell phone Cultural  

1. A portable telephone that uses wireless cellular technology to send and receive phone signals. This technology works by dividing the Earth into small regions called cells. Within each cell the wireless telephone signal goes over its assigned bandwidth to a cell tower, which relays the signal to a telephone switching network, connecting the user to the desired party.

---

Discover More

The proximity to a cell tower is often the key to good reception when using a cell phone.

Etymology

Origin of cell phone

First recorded in 1980–85; cell(ular) ( def. ) + phone ¹ ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does cell-phone compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cell phone vs. smartphone

Example Sentences

"Have some decency. This will end one day," Lopez said after being arrested, in cell phone video that went viral at the time.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

The chain has made him a fixture on its social media accounts, pulling stunts including posting his cell phone number and encouraging customers to call him with their feedback.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

Easy, recurring savings can often be accessed by switching cell phone or internet plans or insurance companies, or by refinancing a car loan, he said.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 19, 2026

Natanson was at her Virginia home at the time of Wednesday’s search, and according to the Post, FBI agents seized her personal laptop and cell phone, along with a Garmin watch and work laptop.

From Salon • Jan. 17, 2026

I almost leave the room without it, but then I remember: the cell phone.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Related Words

• cellular phone
• wireless telephone