area code

noun

: a usually 3-digit number that identifies a particular telephone service area in a country (such as the U.S. or Canada)

Examples of area code in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What started as individual efforts to honor 404 Day originally held on April 4th, numerically reflecting Atlanta’s area code, has evolved into a weeklong celebration backed by major brands and deep community support. Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 Phone numbers with an international area code can signal deception. Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025 Thomas is known for sharing his knowledge of Chicago’s history, such as how the Loop got the area code 312, on his Instagram and TikTok accounts. Shanzeh Ahmad, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2025 Richard sprung Tattle for a breakaway – the nearest BU player was in a different area code – and Tattle slid the puck between the pads of Yegerov at 2:56. Barry Scanlon, Boston Herald, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for area code

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of area code was in 1941

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Cite this Entry

“Area code.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/area%20code. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

area code

noun
: a usually three-digit number that represents each telephone service area in a country (as the U.S. or Canada)

More from Merriam-Webster on area code

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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