network

SayNET-wurk/ˈnɛt.wɝk/UK/ˈnɛt.wɜːk/

Pluralnetworks

Verbnetworks, networking, networked

8 meanings of network

Practice

1
computer systemnouncountable
Several computers and other devices joined together so they can share information.
Like roads that join houses together so cars can travel between them.
The office network went down, so no one could reach the shared files.
She connected her laptop to the home network to back up her photos.
UsageYour computer is on the network or connected to it.
2
nouncountable
A group or system of connected things, people, or parts.
Like a spider's web, where every thread connects to the others.
The city's bus network covers every neighborhood.
A network of caves runs beneath the hills.
UsageSay a network of roads or caves.
Similarsystem, web, complex
3
contactsnouncountable
A group of people who know each other and stay in touch, often to help with work.
Like a web of friends where each person knows someone who can help.
She built a strong network of friends in the new city.
Through his network of old colleagues, he found a new job quickly.
UsageYou build a network of people who can help you.
Similarcircle
4
TV companynouncountable
A group of TV stations that all show the same programs from one main company.
Like one kitchen that sends the same meal out to many restaurants.
The network aired the season finale on Sunday night.
She works for a major television network in New York.
Similarbroadcaster, channel
Note
5
make connectionsverbintransitive
To meet and talk with people in order to make useful connections.
Like making friends at a party who might help you out later.
She went to the conference mainly to network.
He networks at every industry event he attends.
UsageYou network with people at events. This is called networking.
Similarsocialize, mingle, schmooze
6
link computersverbtransitive
To join computers or other things together so they can share information or work as one.
Like building roads between houses so people can visit each other.
The technician networked all the office computers in one afternoon.
You can network two printers so the whole team shares them.

Less common meanings

7
broadcastverbtransitive
To broadcast a program on all the stations of a radio or TV network at the same time.
Like playing the same show on every screen in every store at once.
The broadcaster will network the parade so all its stations can show it live.
They networked the live concert nationwide that evening.
Similarbroadcast, simulcast
Note
8
meshnouncountable or uncountable
A net-like material made of threads or wires joined at even spaces.
Like a fishing net, with even gaps between the threads.
The hammock is a network of strong cords knotted together.
A delicate network of lace covered the table.
Similarmesh, lattice, netting
Note

Practice

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Origin

A compound of the English words "net" and "work."

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact

Network is a compound of the English words net and work. en.wiktionary.org