Connection
/kəˈnɛkʃən/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe state of being joined together; a link or relationship between things.
/kəˈnɛkʃən/
The act of connecting or the state of being connected.
The connection between the two computers was established.
💡 Simply: Imagine a puzzle! When you find the pieces that fit together, that's a connection. Like when your phone connects to the Wi-Fi, or when you become friends with someone new.
👶 For kids: When two things are touching or linked together, that's a connection!
More Examples
There is a strong connection between diet and health.
She felt a deep connection with nature.
How It's Used
"The internet connection was unstable."
"She made a strong connection with her new colleagues."
A means of transport or communication; a point at which two things are connected.
/kəˈnɛkʃən/
A means of communication or transport.
I missed my connection and had to wait for the next flight.
💡 Simply: It's like a bridge or a road that helps you get from one place to another. Like, the bus is your connection to school.
👶 For kids: A way to get from one place to another, like a train that takes you somewhere.
More Examples
The building has a faulty electrical connection.
Please check your internet connection.
How It's Used
"The train connection to London was delayed."
"We need to establish a secure network connection."
A person or thing that helps one gain some advantage or access.
/kəˈnɛkʃən/
A person who is known to someone and may be helpful in gaining an advantage.
She got the interview through a connection.
💡 Simply: It's like having a friend who knows someone who can help you get what you want. Like, if you know a friend's dad who works in the zoo, he can be your connection to seeing the animals.
👶 For kids: Someone who knows someone who can help you!
More Examples
His connections in the industry helped him launch his business.
He used his family connections to secure a better loan.
How It's Used
"He used his connections to get the job."
"She has connections in the art world."
Idioms & expressions
make a connection
To establish a relationship, or to find a link between things.
"The seminar was designed to help you make valuable business connections."
lose connection
To have your connection broken/interrupted.
"My internet connection was bad today."
personal connection
A relationship where one knows the other, personally.
"I have a personal connection with that actor, he is a friend."
From Middle English *conneccioun*, from Old French *conneccion* (modern French *connexion*), from Latin *connectiō* (“a binding together, a joining, a connection”), from *connectō* (“I connect, I tie together”).
The word connection has been used in English since the 14th century, initially referring to the act of joining or binding together.
Memory tip
Think of a chain: each link is a connection.