smartphone

American  

[smahrt-fohn] / ˈsmɑrtˌfoʊn /

Or smart phone

noun

1. a device that combines a cell phone with a handheld computer, typically offering internet access, data storage, email capability, etc.

---

smartphone British  

/ ˈsmɑːtˌfəʊn /

noun

1. computing a mobile telephone with computer features that may enable it to interact with computerized systems, send e-mails, and access the web

---

Etymology

Origin of smartphone

First recorded in 1995–2000

Compare meaning

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

• cell phone vs. smartphone

Example Sentences

But the woman said she has learned hard lessons and will not allow her two other younger children to have a smartphone until they are older.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

He said he was prompted to take action after a parent described feeling they had effectively "lost their child" to a smartphone.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

There’s malware lurking in shady smartphone apps and cheap off-brand household electronics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

"I have grave concerns that smartphone culture is affecting the development of children's brains and as well as their well-being," he told BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today programme.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Dr. Zinchenko consulted the very advanced smartphone clipped to the waistband of her bright red pantsuit.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein