telephone book

noun

1. a book, directory, or the like, usually containing an alphabetical list of telephone subscribers in a city or other area, together with their addresses and telephone numbers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of telephone book¹

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

She holds on to her husband’s possessions — his telephone book and wallet — as if they were jewels.

From Seattle Times

One even decorated the cover of the telephone book in Fortaleza where the artist — known simply as Chico — lived and established a pioneering and controversial collective studio practice.

From New York Times

As he scoured telephone books and newspaper obituary pages, Nobleman tracked down some of Finger’s relatives, including a niece who informed him that Fred had in fact married a woman.

From Los Angeles Times

I delivered telephone books on King Street when I was a kid; I pulled a little wagon.

From New York Times

If you have ever had the misfortune to search through the telephone book for somebody called Hanna in Kilkeel, County Down, you will find nearly 50 entries.

From BBC

Related Words

• directory
• phone book
• yellow pages