Definition of voicemail

electronic communication system wherein a telephone is answered by a recorded message that can direct callers to leave a message, in which case the spoken message is recorded or digitized for later playback to the intended recipient. Callers with access to voicemail can leave messages on other voicemail systems for one individual or for many individuals at one time. Callers with touch-tone telephones can also be directed to specific information simply by pressing a key or combination of keys on the touch-tone pad. Through a voicemail system, callers can access time schedules for theater presentations and, with a credit card, purchase tickets; access bank balances or other banking information; place orders; and access many different kinds of information all without ever speaking to a live person. Many businesses have replaced their call-answering switchboards or receptionist positions with voicemail systems, and in many instances advertisers offer brief advertising messages over commercial voicemail systems.