Network
/ˈnɛtwɜːrk/
Definitions
2 meaningsA system or group of interconnected people or things.
/ˈnɛtwɜːrk/
A system of interconnected things or people.
The company's computer network crashed.
💡 Simply: Imagine a group of friends, or a bunch of computers all connected together so they can share information. That's a network! It's like a web of connections.
👶 For kids: A network is like a bunch of things or people that are all connected to each other, like when you hold hands with your friends.
More Examples
Building a strong business network is crucial for success.
The social network allows people to connect with friends and family.
How It's Used
"The internet is a vast global network."
"She built a strong professional network."
To interact with other people to exchange information and develop contacts, especially to further one's career.
/ˈnɛtwɜːrk/
I plan to network with potential investors at the conference.
💡 Simply: Networking is like going to a party and meeting lots of people, especially to make connections for your job. You're chatting, exchanging business cards, and building relationships. It's about 'who you know'.
👶 For kids: Networking is like making new friends to help you get what you want.
More Examples
She's excellent at networking and making valuable connections.
He networked with several professionals during the job fair.
How It's Used
"She is actively networking at industry events."
"He networked with potential employers at the conference."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
network effect
The effect that one user of a good or service has on the value of that product to other users. When a network effect is present, the value of a product or service increases as more people use it.
"Social media platforms benefit from the network effect; the more users, the more valuable the platform becomes."
networking event
An organized gathering for the purpose of meeting new people for career or business purposes.
"The conference hosted a popular networking event, attracting hundreds of attendees."
From Middle English netwerk, from net (a mesh) + werk (work). Originally referred to a system of interconnected things, particularly in a mesh-like structure; later applied to technological and social connections.
The word 'network' first appeared in the 17th century with the meaning of a mesh. Its use to describe interconnected systems, particularly computers, emerged in the 20th century.
Memory tip
Think of a fishing net; everything is connected and interacts.