Word
handset
Phoneticshand·set, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈhændˌsɛt/
UK/hˈændsɛt/
Countable noun Technology
Definition
n. the part of a phone that you hold in your hand to speak and listen. It can also refer to a modern mobile phone or a remote control device.
n. the physical component of a communication system held in the hand, containing a microphone and receiver. In modern contexts, it frequently serves as a synonym for a mobile phone or a wireless terminal.
Examples
“He picked up the handset to answer the call.”
“The technician replaced the broken handset to restore clear audio to the office desk phone.”
“While the base station remains connected to the landline, the cordless handset allows the user to move freely throughout the building while maintaining a stable connection.”
Examples
simple
“He picked up the handset to answer the call.”
contextual
“The technician replaced the broken handset to restore clear audio to the office desk phone.”
complex
“While the base station remains connected to the landline, the cordless handset allows the user to move freely throughout the building while maintaining a stable connection.”
Usage
Commonly used in technical or retail contexts to distinguish the physical device from the service plan.
Real-World Examples
“Another related change is the introduction of stereo speakers - one at each end of the handset - which Apple said meant the iPhone 7 could deliver twice the volume of the iPhone 6S.” “I'd rented an audioguide handset, and on my way out left it in a tray marked "audioguide return".” “They use Bluetooth to sync with a handset via Meta's AI app.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
PHRASAL VERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/handset