Autodial

/ˈɔːtədaɪəl/ noun

Definition

A feature on a phone or communication device that automatically dials or calls a pre-programmed phone number when activated.

Etymology

From auto- (self) + dial (from Latin rotella 'small wheel'). The term emerged in the 1970s-80s as telephone technology advanced to programmable functions.

Kelly Says

Autodial was revolutionary when it first arrived—having a machine remember and call a number seemed like science fiction. Now it's so normal we call it by boring names like 'speed dial,' but the original wonder is baked into the word.

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