routing

The word “routing” means the process of determining the path data or traffic takes to reach its destination. In plain terms, directing something — data, traffic, deliveries — along a chosen path.

“Routing” is pronounced ROO-tihng (/ˈɹutɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “routing” used in a sentence: “The bank uses your routing number to identify your branch.”

“Routing” is a noun.

“Routing” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Networking refers broadly to connecting devices so they can communicate, while routing specifically describes the process of determining the path that data or traffic takes to reach its destination within that network. Routing is one function that happens within a larger network.

While routing is especially associated with how data travels across computer networks like the internet, the underlying concept of determining a path to a destination can apply more broadly, such as routing traffic or shipments. In dictionary usage, its core meaning centers on directing something toward its destination via a chosen path.

A routing number is a numeric code used to identify a specific financial institution, directing a payment or transfer to the correct bank, extending the general sense of routing as determining a path to a destination. It functions similarly to how data routing directs information to the right place across a network.