What does handset mean?
A handset is a telephone, most often a mobile phone. The word also has the older and still valid meaning of the receiver attached to a telephone, especially a corded or cordless landline. In everyday modern usage, however, “handset” usually refers to the complete mobile device rather than just the part held to the ear. This broader sense became especially familiar as mobile phones became common tools for communication, internet access, photography, and entertainment. The term can sound somewhat formal or technical, but it is widely understood and is often used in discussions of mobile technology, business phones, and telecommunications. Its literal composition also reflects its history: it is a set or complete apparatus associated with the hand, originally the piece of a telephone handled by the user. Compared with “cell phone,” “handset” is broader and can include other kinds of telephones; compared with “headset,” it describes something held to the ear rather than worn on the head.
nounA telephone, especially a mobile phone. More generally, it can mean the part of a telephone that is held to the ear and used to speak and listen.
- A mobile phone or cellular telephone.
- The receiver or earpiece of a telephone, especially a corded or cordless landline.
"She upgraded her handset to a newer model with a larger screen."
"The company issued new handsets to its sales staff."
"Replace the handset if you hear static during the call."
The standard plural is handsets.
"Employees received company handsets for work calls."
A handset began as the receiver of a landline phone and now usually means the entire mobile phone in your pocket.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does handset come from?
“Handset” is an English compound formed from “hand” and “set.” The word developed in the nineteenth century in connection with telephones, initially referring to the receiver or apparatus held in the hand during a call. The modern sense for a mobile telephone developed with the widespread adoption of cellular phones in the late twentieth century. Its related root forms include “set,” “setter,” “setting,” and “settable,” all reflecting the older Germanic and English word from which the compound was formed.
Related word forms
How handset is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is especially common in British English, while cell phone is more common in American English. In telecommunications contexts, handset may refer broadly to mobile, cordless, or fixed-line equipment.
Easily confused with handset
A cell phone is specifically a telephone that connects to a cellular network, whereas handset can also refer to a corded or cordless landline telephone.
A handset is held to the ear, while a headset is worn over or around the head and typically includes a microphone.