mobile phone

American  

noun

1. any wireless telephone that operates over a relatively large area, as a cell phone or PCS phone.

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mobile phone British  

noun

1. a portable telephone that works by means of a cellular radio system

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Etymology

Origin of mobile phone

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

"Both cars and phones include mobile phone radios, satellite location chips, short-range wireless activity and sophisticated software," he said.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2026

Reports that Charter Communications has discussed partnering with SpaceX on a consumer mobile phone in the U.S. pressured telecom stocks.

From Barron's • Jun. 30, 2026

The Long Beach rocket-and-satellite maker is buying a company that provides critical communications services to pilots, mariners and others, while giving Rocket Lab a foothold in the emerging satellite-based mobile phone market.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026

If Charter partners with SpaceX on a mobile phone, it would give the company exposure to Musk’s Starlink business and growing subscriber base.

From Barron's • Jun. 29, 2026

The door to the chapel was open, and inside both of Scarlett’s parents were waiting, her mother in tears, her father worriedly talking to people on a mobile phone, along with another policewoman.

From "The Graveyard Book" by Neil Gaiman