Telephone answering machine is a device used for recording and playing back incoming messages. The word 'telephone' is spelt /ˈtɛlɪfəʊn/ in IPA, with stress on the first syllable. 'Answering' is spelt /ˈansərɪŋ/, with primary stress on the second syllable. Finally, 'machine' is spelt /məˈʃiːn/, with secondary stress on the first syllable. The complete word /ˈtɛlɪfəʊn ˈansərɪŋ məˈʃiːn/ has stress on the second syllable of 'answering' and the first syllable of 'machine'.
A telephone answering machine refers to an electronic device or system designed to automatically record and store incoming telephone messages when the called party is unable to answer the phone. It serves as a substitute for live communication between callers and the intended recipient by allowing individuals to leave spoken messages that can be listened to at a later time. The primary purpose of a telephone answering machine is to provide a means for individuals to receive and retrieve messages left by callers without direct, real-time interaction.
Typically connected to a telephone line or integrated within a telephone system, a telephone answering machine offers various features to facilitate message recording and retrieval. These features may include a pre-recorded message informing callers to leave their message, customizable outgoing messages, message playback functionality, and remote access to messages through a secure code or password.
A telephone answering machine finds extensive use in both personal and professional settings, providing a convenient means for individuals, households, and businesses to manage incoming phone calls when they cannot be directly addressed. It offers practicality and efficiency by allowing important calls to be captured and messages transmitted accurately, regardless of the recipient's availability. By enabling communication to take place at the convenience of the message receiver, telephone answering machines significantly enhance communication accessibility and flexibility.