noun Uncommon

Ethernet

EE-thuh-net

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Ethernet (noun) means the standard system for connecting computers and other equipment to a network using cables, and the family of technical rules that govern how data travels along them. Example: “The office is wired for Ethernet in every room.”

noun

The standard system for connecting computers and other equipment to a network using cables, and the family of technical rules that govern how data travels along them.

"The office is wired for Ethernet in every room."

"Ethernet has been the backbone of office networking for decades."

A cable or socket of this type, as used to plug a device directly into a router or wall port.

"I plugged the console into Ethernet because the Wi-Fi kept stuttering."

"There is no Ethernet port on this laptop, only USB-C."

How to use Ethernet

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe cable way of connecting a computer to a network, instead of over the air.

When to use it

Standard technical term used freely by non-specialists. Conventionally capitalised.

Memory tip

People say "an Ethernet cable" but "over Ethernet" without an article when they mean the method.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

Wi-Fi internet → broadband → LAN →

Common pairings

Ethernet cable Ethernet port Gigabit Ethernet plug into Ethernet Ethernet switch

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “Ethernet” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The office is wired for _____ in every room.

Etymology

From ether, the substance once thought to fill space and carry light waves, plus the suffix -net for network.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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wired networking LAN cabling cabled network network cable patch cable LAN cable RJ45 cable

Antonyms

Wi-Fi wireless networking

Related words

wireless Wi-Fi

Rhymes for Ethernet

internet cabernet

See all rhymes for Ethernet →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Ethernet and Wi-Fi?

Ethernet carries data along a physical cable between a device and a router or switch. Wi-Fi carries the same kind of data over radio, with no cable. Because a cable is not shared with neighbouring devices and is not affected by walls or interference, an Ethernet connection is generally more consistent than a wireless one.

Is Ethernet the same as the internet?

No. Ethernet is a way of connecting devices to a local network, typically within one building. The internet is the worldwide network beyond that. An Ethernet cable is often how a computer reaches the router that in turn reaches the internet.

What do Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat7 mean?

They are categories of Ethernet cable, each specified to carry data at particular speeds over particular distances. A higher category number generally indicates a cable built to a stricter specification.

What is the meaning of Ethernet?

"Ethernet" (noun) means the standard system for connecting computers and other equipment to a network using cables, and the family of technical rules that govern how data travels along them.

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