Phrase guide

dial up

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To telephone, to call on the telephone.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • The written instructions weren't clear, so I dialed her up and asked her to explain what she meant.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: give a ring, phone, ring, ring up

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To connect a computer to a modem.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • In those days it took three minutes just to dial up, and every minute you were connected was costing you a higher phone bill.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To increase the level (of something) by turning a dial, or (figuratively) as if by turning a dial.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • Near-synonym: ratchet up
  • These comments are guaranteed to dial up the animosity.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: ratchet up

Antonyms: dial back

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.