Dial/ˈdaɪəl/ Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/2Time Indication A dial often shows time; on analog clocks, hands point to numbers on the dial. The clock dial showed it was nearly noon. Pro Tip 2/2Design & Artistry Watch dials can be intricate and artistic, adding charm to the timepiece. He admired the ornate design on his grandfather's watch dial.