intercom

American  

[in-ter-kom] / ˈɪn tərˌkɒm /

noun

1. a communication system within a building, ship, airplane, local area, etc., with a loudspeaker or receiver for listening and a microphone for speaking at each of two or more points.

2. a microphone or receiver of such a communication system.

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intercom British  

/ ˈɪntəˌkɒm /

noun

1. informal an internal telephone system for communicating within a building, an aircraft, etc

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Etymology

Origin of intercom

First recorded in 1935–40; by shortening

Example Sentences

Each room is equipped with an intercom to contact guards if needed.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

The red brick building that houses the apartment is also home to 26 other units and offers several high-end communal amenities, including an elevator, laundry room, and video intercom entry.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 4, 2026

But it's bringing back memories including, as they walk into the kitchen, of the now-long-gone intercom system between rooms beloved by their mother.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2025

“Help, I need help!” he shouted to the nurses through the intercom.

From Salon • Nov. 25, 2024

Then S.Q. was removing their blindfolds and pressing the intercom button.

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart

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