What is call button? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of call button in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of call button

call buttonnoun
chuông gọi (y tá)

Where does the word call button come from?

The term "call button" originated in the late 19th century in reference to a device that summoned a servant or a maid to attend to someone's needs. These early call buttons were typically small, bell-like devices that were installed in rooms or offices, allowing individuals to alert someone outside to enter. The concept of call buttons evolved over time to include applications in hospitals, elevators, and other settings where a notification was needed to alert someone to a specific situation. Today, the term "call button" refers to any device or button that initiates a communication or response, such as a nurse call button in a hospital or an elevator call button. Interestingly, the term "call button" is still used widely today, reflecting the continuity of the concept from its humble beginnings as a simple doorbell-like device to its modern applications in various industries and settings.

Example of vocabulary call buttonnamespace

A button which summons a person when pressed, typically by causing a call bell to ring; (now frequently) a button for calling a lift.

When the elevator arrives, push the call button to send it to your desired floor.
The call button on the phone rang loudly, indicating that someone was trying to reach her.
The nurse gestured for the patient to press the call button in case of any emergencies during the night.
In the doctor's office, the call button beside the examination table is for summoning the nurse or the doctor in case of any concerns.
The staff seated in the control room of a call center answered calls through the call buttons assigned to them.