toll-free

UK: ˈtəʊl friː | US: ˈtoʊl friː

Definition

  1. adj. not subject to a charge or fee

  2. adj. (of a phone call) charged to the receiver rather than the caller

Structure
toll <charge/fee>free <without>
Etymology

The word combines "toll," derived from Old English toll (a tax or fee, from Latin telonium via Germanic roots), with "free," from Old English frēo (exempt from obligation). Historically, "toll" referred to payments for bridges or roads, while "free" denoted exemption. By the 20th century, "toll-free" emerged in telecommunications to describe calls where the recipient bears the cost, leveraging the original sense of "free from toll."

Examples

  1. The company offers a toll-free customer service line.

  2. Toll-free numbers are essential for businesses targeting nationwide clients.

  3. This highway is toll-free for local residents.

  4. Dial the toll-free hotline for assistance.

  5. The seminar registration includes a toll-free contact option.