British Slang For Telephone – 6 Examples

Written by Gabriel Cruz - Foodie, Animal Lover, Slang & Language Enthusiast

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The telephone is arguably one of the most defining inventions of the modern period along with the steam engine. The telephone allowed for instant communications, which removed the barrier of distance. The telephone would later result in several devices and inventions such as smartphones and instant messaging. Did you know that the creator of the telephone was Scottish? In celebration, today, we will look into British slang terms for the telephone. 

British Slang For Telephone (in Alphabetical Order)

Alexander

Meaning:

  • (Noun) While daily uncommon, the term “Alexander” may be used to refer to a call or telephone. It references Alexander Graham Bell. 
  • Example: Your Alexander kept on ringing all night. Why didn’t you answer it?

Bell

Meaning:

  • (Noun) Unlike Alexander, the term “Bell” is much more commonly used. It refers just the same to telephones and calls. Alexander Graham Bell inspired this British slang. 
  • Example: Your bell got wet! You try to put it on rice. 

Blower

Meaning:

  • (Noun) This common UK slang is used to substitute “call” and “phone”
  • Example: I’m on the blower right now. Please leave quietly.

Buzz

Meaning:

  • (Noun) This British slang is an informal way of saying “telephone calls”. It is related to “tinkle” and references the sound telephones make. 
  • Example: Here is your phone. It had some missed buzz when I checked.

Dog And Bone

Meaning:

  • (Noun) The Cockney rhyming slang for telephone or phone. 
  • Example: I should upgrade my dog and bone. Calls get cut now and then without explanation. 

Tinkle

Meaning:

  • (Noun) Tinkle, ring, and buzz are all British slang terms simply referring to a “telephone call.” Tinkle is very common with the older generation.
  • Example: My mom’s tinkle ended by accident due to poor reception. She went mad because it was something important.

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