What does redial mean?
The verb redial refers to the act of dialing a telephone number again, typically after a previous call has ended or been disconnected. This can be done manually by re-entering the phone number or by using a redial function available on many phones and phone systems. Redialing is often used when trying to reach someone who was unavailable or when a call was dropped due to poor network conditions. The term is widely used in both British and US English and is applicable to various types of telecommunication devices.
verbTo dial a telephone number again, especially after a previous call has ended or been disconnected.
- To make another attempt to connect a telephone call.
- To dial a previously dialed telephone number again.
"She tried to reach him, but when he didn't answer, she decided to redial later."
"After the line went dead, she quickly redialed to try and reconnect."
"The automated system prompted him to redial if he wanted to leave a message."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of redial
The term redial is derived from the prefix 're-', meaning 'again', and 'dial', which refers to the act of entering a telephone number using a dial or keypad. The word has its roots in the early days of telephony and has evolved with the development of modern communication technology.
How redial is actually used
Commonly used in the context of landline phones, mobile phones, and video conferencing.