The phrase ‘get on the horn’ primarily means to make a phone call. It is colloquially used, especially in informal contexts, to suggest that someone should reach out via phone, often to discuss something important or urgent.
This expression likely originates from the early days of telephony when telephones were equipped with large, horn-shaped mouthpieces. The term has carried over into modern usage and can be heard in both personal conversations and professional settings.
For example, if a colleague says, ‘I’ll get on the horn and call him,’ it implies that they will make an important phone call to discuss matters further. It’s a casual way to indicate that a conversation is forthcoming, emphasizing the act of communication.