WordGarden.iointercom
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌɪntəkˈɒm/
US
- /ˈɪntərˌkɑm/
Meanings
Noun
a system or device for two-way voice communication within a building, vehicle, or site
Beyond the definition
Imagine you're in a big house, or maybe a school, and need to talk to someone in another room without shouting. An intercom is a system that lets you speak to people in another part of the building, often through speakers and microphones built into the wall.
Originally, "intercom" was short for "intercommunication." You might use an intercom at a security gate to talk to visitors, or a school nurse might use one to call a student to their office. Sometimes, you'll even hear the term "doorbell intercom," which combines the function of a doorbell with two-way communication. It's all about instant connection!
An intercom is a system that allows two-way communication between people in different locations. While we often picture those classic wall-mounted boxes, an intercom can take many forms—from simple wired systems to sophisticated wireless networks.
The core idea is to provide direct voice communication without needing a telephone. Think about the drive-thru at a fast-food restaurant; that's an intercom system in action! Security systems frequently use intercoms to screen visitors before opening doors, and schools often employ them for announcements or emergency situations. Modern "smart" intercoms can even integrate with video cameras and smartphone apps, allowing you to see and speak to whoever is on the other end.
The term "intercom" comes from shortening "intercommunication," which highlights its purpose: helping people speak directly across rooms, doors, or parts of a building or vehicle. So whether it's a simple button on a wall or a modern digital entry system, an intercom is all about making direct, quick communication possible.
Examples
- 1
Front desk
Press the intercom button and tell the receptionist you're here.
- 2
Medical workplace
The nurse called the doctor on the intercom.
- 3
Public announcement
An announcement came over the intercom just before boarding.
- Phraseover the intercom
through a speaker system
- 4
Building entry
The building's intercom system was broken, so visitors had to call from outside.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Video entry
She checked the visitor on the video intercom before buzzing him in.
- Phrasebuzz someone in
unlock the door for them from inside
See also
Similar
- interphone
- internal communication system
Shades of meaning
- doorphone
- talkback system
- call box
Contrast
- public-address system
- telephone
Used with (collocations)
- intercom system
- buzz the intercom
- speak over the intercom
- building intercom
Explore
- access control
- two-way communication
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- intercomnoun
Forms
- intercomspluralnoun