switchboard

[ swich-bawrd, -bohrd ]

/ ˈswɪtʃˌbɔrd, -ˌboʊrd /

a structural unit on which are mounted switches and instruments necessary to complete telephone circuits manually.

Also called lightboard. a panel of switches, dimmers, etc., for controlling the lighting on a stage or in an auditorium.

Origin of switchboard

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75; switch + board

Friday—if I may so address you—over on that switchboard you will find a small lever-control.

The Passing of Ku Sui |Anthony Gilmore
Harry was at the wheel while Jack stood with his hand close to the switchboard that governed the engines pulsating below.

Boy Scouts in Southern Waters |G. Harvey Ralphson
Already the girl at the switchboard can find the person wanted in thirty seconds.

The History of the Telephone |Herbert N. Casson
This completes the switchboard equipment, which is, therefore, very simple.

Electric Transmission of Water Power |Alton D. Adams

Its girls sat on their stools at the switchboard until the window-panes were broken by the heat.

The History of the Telephone |Herbert N. Casson

switchboard

/ (ˈswɪtʃˌbɔːd) /

an installation in a telephone exchange, office, hotel, etc, at which the interconnection of telephone lines is manually controlled

an assembly of switchgear for the control of power supplies in an installation or building