switchboard meaning

Noun: switchboard 'swich`bord
1. Telephone central where circuits are completed with patchcords
  - patchboard, plugboard
Derived forms: switchboards
Type of: central, exchange, telephone exchange
Part of: phone system, telephone system
Encyclopedia: Switchboard
[Architecture]
A large single electric control panel, frame, or assembly of panels on which are mounted (either on the back or on the face, or both) switches, overcurrent and other protective devices, buses, and usually instruments; not intended for installation in a cabinet but may be completely enclosed in metal; usually is accessible from both the front and rear.
[Business]
AmE / noun [C]

the central part of a telephone system used by a company, etc., where telephone calls are answered and connected (put through) to the appropriate person or department; the people who work this equipment:
a switchboard operator
Call the switchboard and ask for extension 410.

More: Next

ask the switchboard operator for an outside line.
protesting viewers jammed the bbc switchboard.
in this view, a manager is sometimes likened to a telephone switchboard.
from the minute it ended, the white house switchboard was clogged with congratulatory phone calls.
can use cheap points ? switchboard is appropriate