Bandwidth
/ˈbændˌwɪdθ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time.
/ˈbændˌwɪdθ/
Capacity for data transmission
We need more bandwidth to upload this large file.
💡 Simply: The amount of data that can be sent or received at once.
More Examples
The network experienced a bandwidth bottleneck during peak hours.
How It's Used
"The server's bandwidth needs to be increased to handle the high traffic."
"Our internet bandwidth is too low for streaming."
The capacity or ability of a person or system to handle a certain amount of work or tasks.
/ˈbændˌwɪdθ/
Range or scope of abilities
She's currently at full bandwidth, so please don't assign her any extra tasks.
💡 Simply: How much someone can handle at one time.
How It's Used
"The project manager needs to assess the team's bandwidth before assigning more tasks."
From "band" (a range of frequencies) + "width" (the extent of something). Originally used in telecommunications to describe the range of frequencies available for data transmission; the meaning has expanded to encompass a broader range of capacities.
The term's usage was primarily technical until the late 20th century when its metaphorical meaning gained traction.
Memory tip
Think of a band – a range of frequencies; width – the extent of that range.