online
7 synonyms and 4 antonyms for online, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Connected to the internet or another network, and actively available or in use.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use online
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From on + line, first used around the 1950s for equipment directly connected to and controlled by a computer.
Full origin of online →Frequently asked questions
What does “online” mean?
The word “online” means connected to the internet or another network, and actively available or in use. In plain terms, connected to a network (usually the internet) and currently active, or being switched into active use.
How do you pronounce “online”?
“Online” is pronounced ON-lyn (/ˈɒnlaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “online” in a sentence?
Here is “online” used in a sentence: “Her laptop has been online all day downloading updates.”
What is the opposite of “online”?
The opposite of “online” — its antonyms — are offline, hardcopy, brick and mortar and living under a rock.
What part of speech is “online”?
Depending on how it is used, “online” can be an adjective and a verb.
Where does the word “online” come from?
The word “online” dates back to around 1950. From on + line, first used around the 1950s for equipment directly connected to and controlled by a computer.
Is “online” a common word?
“Online” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “online” have?
“Online” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: connected to the internet or another network, and actively available or in use.
What is the difference between online and offline?
Online means connected to the internet and available for use, while offline means disconnected from it. An online store lets you shop over the internet; an offline task needs no connection at all. Someone shown as "online" is currently active on a network, whereas "offline" means they are not.
Is "online" one word or two?
Modern usage writes it as one word: "online." The older hyphenated form "on-line" was common in early computing but now looks dated. Whether used as an adjective ("online banking") or an adverb ("shop online"), the single-word spelling is standard in current English.
What is an example of "online"?
Online shopping, online banking, and an online meeting all take place over the internet. Saying "she is online now" means she is connected and active. A game described as online needs a live internet connection to play. Each use points to being on a network and available.