rotary dial

rotary dial

The disk on a rotary telephone that is turned to dial a phone number. I hated having to use a rotary dial as a kid—it's so much easier to dial a phone number by pressing buttons.
See also: dial
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • get on the phone
  • be on the phone
  • be on the telephone/phone
  • on the phone
  • dial up
  • want (something) like (one wants) a hole in the head
  • it's for you
  • call (one) on (something)
  • call on
  • mail (something) to (one)
References in periodicals archive
Data was stored and counted mechanically using 3,000 storage wheels, 1,400 rotary dial switches and 500 miles of wire.
The Mark I - the impressive beast
And the new multifunction monitor with its rotary dial provides enhanced diagnostic features and integrates the radio and HVAC controls in one place.
Hitachi Zaxis Dash-5 excavators debut
With a rotary dial for precision selection of an appropriate temperature, officials for Portland Ore.-based CDN say TempFork makes it easier than ever to monitor perfect temperatures at the grill.
Monitoring meat
The Jura brand added the J9 espresso maker, with touch-screen settings and a rotary dial that sets the type of beverage.
Java Jamboree: new-generation coffeemakers and tea makers introduced at the Housewares Show
The controller features both manual speed adjustment using a front panel mounted rotary dial, as well as electronic speed control via a 4 to 20 mA signal from an external source (sensor, flow meter, analyzer, process controller).
Controller features speed adjustments
The new code I'll call it 838, which has the same number of "clicks" on a rotary dial as 603--would be attached to all new phone numbers.--DAVID BROOKS/THE TELEGRAPH
Number theory: N.H.'S area code to stay single for a few more years
When a major manufacturer announces in this day and age it is introducing a new revolver, you kind of wonder if that is the same thing as coming out with a cell phone featuring a rotary dial.
The "new" Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38
The base unit, alternatively, must have an integrated unit that connects to a rotary dial or touchtone telephone.
Illinois amends community care program for elderly
A quick flick of a switch near the rotary dial that you turn to engage the six speed auto gearbox allows you to switch from normal mode to Dynamic, to sharpen up the accelerator response, firm the steering and alter the damper setting for performance motoring.
Forget tradition; It's the most radical redesign Jaguar has ever made to the flagship XJ, but Ed Stephens is smitten
Then, the assembled cap and seal continue on the rotary dial through the pad printing and final inspection stations to complete the process.
Vision sensors for error-proof oil cap assembly
Turn the rotary dial of the superb Terrain Response System to 'sand', that most devilish of terrains, and Halewood's mini Range Rover performs like a mechanical crab.
Chelsea camel; DRIVING SEAT in association with fish4 a matter of OPINION
Air velocity (2.5, 5.0, 10, or 15 m/s) is user selectable via the ergonomic rotary dial. Typical applications include HVAC, aeronautics, professional calibration services, and science laboratories.
Mini wind tunnel
The devices are addressed with an eight-position rotary dial when used with Phoenix Contact wireless interface systems.
Phoenix Contact
All of the restaurant's phones are rotary dial. Gleaming hubcaps and other memorabilia from the mid-20th century adorn the walls.
Chapter ends for diner
If the new technologies leave you wishing for the days of rotary dial phones and elevator operators, you'll appreciate the Web site's easy directions on how to watch and listen to the newest programming on WUSF.
A message from the general manager