Definition

Noun: A dedicated telephone circuit or channel that is reserved for the exclusive use of a single subscriber or organization, not shared with others on a public network.

Usage

A "private line" is a telecommunications service providing a direct, always-on connection. It is used to emphasize exclusivity, security, and reliability for voice or data communication. - The bank uses a private line to connect its headquarters and data center for secure transactions. - For confidential discussions, the executives communicated over a private line.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a private line to someone": This idiom suggests having direct, exclusive, and often privileged access to a person, especially someone in authority.
  • As a senior advisor, she had a private line to the CEO.

Variants and Related Words

• Leased Line (n): A synonym often used in business contexts for a dedicated telecommunications line rented from a service provider.
  • The company upgraded its leased line to increase bandwidth.
• Dedicated Line (n): Another common synonym emphasizing the line's exclusive use.
  • The server is connected via a dedicated line.

Synonyms

• Dedicated circuit: A communication channel reserved for one user.
• Leased circuit: A line rented for exclusive long-term use.

Related Phrases

• Private branch exchange (PBX): A private telephone network used within a company, which may utilize private lines for external connections.
• Tie line: A private line connecting two or more PBX systems.

Noun

1. a telephone line serving a single subscriber