robocall

American  

[roh-boh-kawl] / ˈroʊ boʊˌkɔl /

noun

Digital Technology, Telecommunications.

1. a telephone call placed to large numbers of people by a computerized device that automatically dials the telephone numbers and plays a recorded message.

   Many but not all robocalls are illegal.

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Etymology

Origin of robocall

First recorded in 1990–95; robo- + call (in the sense “telephone call”)

Example Sentences

Be suspicious of robocalls, which may be phone calls that start with silence or a prerecorded message.

From MarketWatch

For example, in late September 2008, the top headlines on Nixon’s website focused on robocall rules, lawsuits over mortgage fraud and consumer tips for students.

From Salon

Commissioners have worked together this year on key issues, including curbing robocalls and promoting spectrum-sharing among satellite systems.

From Los Angeles Times

From fake robocalls to bogus celebrity endorsement of candidates, AI-generated content is testing tech platforms and lawmakers.

From Los Angeles Times

Since the New Hampshire robocalls, the FCC has taken steps to combat the growing use of artificial intelligence tools in political communications.

From Seattle Times