User
/ˈjuːzər/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who utilizes a product, service, or system.
/ˈjuːzər/
A person who uses something.
The new website is designed to be user-friendly.
💡 Simply: A user is like someone who plays a video game, watches TV, or uses a phone. They're the person doing the action!
👶 For kids: A user is someone who uses something, like a computer or a toy.
More Examples
All users must agree to the terms and conditions.
The app collects data about its users to improve performance.
How It's Used
"The software is designed with the end user in mind."
"She is a regular user of the library."
A person who habitually consumes or is addicted to a particular drug.
/ˈjuːzər/
A person who consumes or uses drugs or a specific substance.
The rehab center helps users overcome addiction.
💡 Simply: Sometimes 'user' means someone who takes drugs regularly. This is a serious situation.
👶 For kids: Sometimes 'user' means someone who takes drugs.
More Examples
The report highlighted the dangers faced by drug users.
Support groups are available for users and their families.
How It's Used
"The study examined the effects of the drug on regular users."
"He admitted he was a user for many years."
Idioms & expressions
user interface
The point of interaction between a user and a device, system, or application.
"The user interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate."
user experience (UX)
The overall experience a person has when interacting with a product, system or service, including usability, accessibility, and enjoyment.
"The company is focused on improving user experience to attract more customers."
user-friendly
Easy to use and understand.
"This software is very user-friendly; even beginners can learn how to use it."
From Middle English *user*, from Old French *user* (“to use, treat, employ”), from Latin *ūsus* (“a use, employment, exercise”), from the verb *ūtī* (“to use”).
The word 'user' in the sense of a person who utilizes something has been in use since the late 16th century. The specific application to technology and software is a more modern development.
Memory tip
Think of a person who 'uses' something.
Word Origin
"use, employment, exercise"