Definition

Noun: A French telephone is a type of telephone set where the microphone (mouthpiece) and the receiver (earpiece) are combined into a single handheld unit, as opposed to being separate pieces connected by a cord.

Usage

This term specifically refers to the physical design of a telephone. It is a historical or descriptive term, often used to describe vintage telephones. * The antique shop had a beautiful old French telephone on display. * In classic movies, characters often speak into a French telephone.

Advanced Usage

• The design is also commonly known as a "candlestick telephone" due to its shape.
• This style was prevalent in the early to mid-20th century before being replaced by the one-piece handset design common today.

Variants and Related Words

• Candlestick telephone: A direct synonym describing the same physical design.
• Handset: The modern, one-piece unit containing both the earpiece and mouthpiece, which evolved from this design.

Synonyms

• Candlestick telephone
• Vintage telephone (this is a broader, less specific term)

Antonyms

• Wall telephone: A telephone where the receiver is separate and hangs on a cradle on the main unit mounted to a wall.
• Desk set telephone: A telephone where the receiver is separate and rests in a cradle on the main base unit placed on a desk.

Noun

1. telephone set with the mouthpiece and earpiece mounted on a single handle