telephony An adjective that covers a multitude of communications issues, telephony has recently permeated the world of small computing, as add-in boards that combine the functions of modems, sound boards, speakerphones, and voice mail systems have begun to proliferate. These DSP-powered telephony boards can sell for less than $300 and are often integrated into new machines targeted for small office and home office users. Unless you want to sound stupid when you say this word, put the stress on the second syllable. See also: DSP