900 number

noun

1. a telephone number preceded by the three-digit code “900,” used to provide information or entertainment for a fee charged directly to the caller's telephone bill.

Word History and Origins

Origin of 900 number¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Aside from the “super classic” and ubiquitous “The 900 Number,” James worked on Chill Rob G‘s “Court is Now in Session” and Latee’s “This Cut’s Got Flavor.”

From Los Angeles Times

Mark the 45 King, real name Mark Howard James, was known for his signature track, “The 900 Number.”

From Los Angeles Times

In 1987, he gained notoriety for his iconic breakbeat track “The 900 Number” — a song that featured a looping baritone sax solo from Marva Whitney’s “Unwind Yourself.”

From Los Angeles Times

“So more cases than we wanted today but … our worries seven days ago is that we would be seeing that 800, 900 number by now,” he said.

From Washington Times

In those pre-internet days, the contest involved dialing a 900 number that cost $2 a call.

From New York Times