Definition

Noun: A dedicated telephone line or circuit used specifically for placing long-distance calls that incur a charge (a toll), as opposed to local calls which are typically free or flat-rate.

Usage

This term refers to the physical or logical telephone connection itself. It is used to specify the type of line required for a particular call or service. * In the past, you needed a toll line to call another state. * The business subscribed to a dedicated toll line for its frequent international communications.

Advanced Usage

• Historically, the concept of a "toll line" was more distinct when telephone networks separated local and long-distance infrastructure. In modern digital and bundled service plans, the distinction is often less physically explicit, though the underlying routing principle remains.

Variants and Related Words

• Trunk line: A major transmission line that carries multiple channels, often including toll traffic between switching centers.
• Long-distance line: A more general, descriptive synonym for a toll line.
• Toll call: Refers to the call made on a toll line, not the line itself.
• Toll-free line: The opposite concept; a line where the called party pays for the call, not the caller.

Synonyms

Long-distance line, interexchange channel, trunk (in specific technical contexts).

Antonyms

Local line, toll-free line.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To place a toll call: To make a long-distance call that incurs a charge.
  • I had to place a toll call to speak with the headquarters.

Noun

1. a telephone line for long-distance calls