switch
board
Plural
switchboards
1
the central part of a phone system by which phone calls in a hotel, office, etc. are answered and put through
A switchboard is a device or system used to manage telephone calls by connecting and directing them to the appropriate lines or extensions. In older telephone systems, switchboards were operated manually by an operator who plugged and unplugged phone lines to connect calls. Modern switchboards are electronic and automate the process, managing call routing and distribution for businesses or service providers. Switchboards are commonly used in offices, hotels, and large organizations, allowing multiple lines to be handled at once, ensuring that calls reach the correct person or department efficiently.
- The receptionist answered the phone and transferred the call through the switchboard.
- She worked as an operator, managing the switchboard and directing calls to the right department.
- We need to fix the switchboard because some calls are not being connected properly.
- The switchboard system in the office can handle up to 50 calls at once.
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