PARTY LINE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "party line" refers to a telecommunications feature that was commonly used in the early days of telephone systems. It specifically describes a system where multiple telephone subscribers share a single telephone line. Each subscriber is assigned a unique ring pattern, which alerts them to incoming calls intended for their specific residence or business.
In a party line setup, all the subscribers connected to the line can hear when someone else is making or receiving a call. This means that conversations are not private, as anyone on the line can eavesdrop or participate in the conversation if they wish. Party lines were typically established in rural areas or small towns where individual lines were not economically feasible.
During a call, one user would pick up the telephone to initiate a conversation, and they would make it clear that they intended to use the line by stating their name or a specific code. Other subscribers would then have to politely hang up to allow the initial caller to proceed with their conversation.
With the advent of more advanced telephone systems and widespread individual telephone lines, party lines became less prevalent and were eventually phased out. However, the term "party line" has also been adopted as a metaphorical expression to refer to a situation where multiple individuals or groups share the same opinion, objective, or objective.
Common Misspellings for PARTY LINE
- oarty line
- larty line
- -arty line
- 0arty line
- pzrty line
- psrty line
- pwrty line
- pqrty line
- paety line
- padty line
- pafty line
- patty line
- pa5ty line
- pa4ty line
- parry line
- parfy line
- pargy line
- paryy line
- par6y line
Etymology of PARTY LINE
The term "party line" originated in the early 20th century and has two distinct origins, each contributing to its meaning today:1. Telephone System: In the early days of telephone communication, particularly in rural areas, a party line referred to a shared telephone line that connected multiple households. Instead of having private lines, several households would share the same line, each with their own distinct ringing pattern. When one party received a call, others on the line could listen in or even join the conversation. Thus, a party line referred to a multi-party telephone connection.2. Political Connotation: The term also has a political connotation, dating back to the late 18th century. In politics, a party line refers to the official stance or policy of a political party. It represents the position that all members of the party are expected to advocate and support. Deviating from the party line could lead to consequences or criticism within the party.
Idioms with the word PARTY LINE
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party line
A party line is a widely accepted viewpoint or policy held by a group of people, especially within a political party or organization. It can also refer to a telephone line shared by multiple households, each of which can listen in on calls made by others.
Similar spelling words for PARTY LINE
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