1. a person who makes phone calls, especially one who calls in to a radio or television show
Usage: informal
2. a news story or report gathered by telephone rather than in person
Usage: journalism; informal

Examples

• The radio host took a call from a phoner who wanted to discuss the election.
• Several phoners called in during the live broadcast to share their opinions.
• The reporter filed a phoner from the airport when she couldn't reach the scene in time.
• We received dozens of phoners after the announcement was made.
• The news desk decided to use a phoner instead of sending a crew to cover the story.