DictionarycellularMobile telephone service
adjective

cellular

Relating to mobile telephone networks or service.

The phone loses its cellular connection inside the tunnel.

Etymology

Latin cellula meant a small cell. Cellular networks use many local coverage cells, so the adjective describes the system’s division into connected service areas.

More examples

  • They compared cellular coverage along the route.
  • The tower carries cellular signals.
  • Her plan includes cellular data.

Forms

cellular

Similar words

mobile
Mobile describes portability as well as phone service.
wireless
Wireless includes technologies beyond cellular networks.