name
Common
Linux
LIH-nuhks
Linux (name) means the free, open-source operating system kernel created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. Example: “Millions of servers around the world run on Linux.”
name
1
The free, open-source operating system kernel created by Linus Torvalds in 1991.
"Millions of servers around the world run on Linux."
noun
1
Any complete operating system built around this kernel, such as Ubuntu or Fedora.
"She switched her laptop from Windows to Linux last year."
How to use Linux
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe free operating system that powers most of the internet's servers and many phones and devices behind the scenes.
Common mistake
Technically "Linux" refers only to the kernel; the full system people install (with a desktop, apps, etc.) is more precisely a "Linux distribution."
Common pairings
linux kernel
linux distribution
run linux
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Word forms
- Plural
- Linuxes, Linuxen
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Millions of servers around the world run on _____.
Etymology
A blend of "Linus" (its creator, Linus Torvalds) and "Unix," the earlier operating system family it was inspired by.
Frequently asked questions
What does “Linux” mean?
The word “Linux” means the free, open-source operating system kernel created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. In plain terms, the free operating system that powers most of the internet's servers and many phones and devices behind the scenes.
How do you pronounce “Linux”?
“Linux” is pronounced LIH-nuhks (/ˈlɪ.nəks/ in IPA).
How do you use “Linux” in a sentence?
Here is “Linux” used in a sentence: “Millions of servers around the world run on Linux.”
What part of speech is “Linux”?
Depending on how it is used, “Linux” can be a name and a noun.
Is “Linux” a common word?
“Linux” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “Linux” have?
“Linux” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the free, open-source operating system kernel created by Linus Torvalds in 1991.
What is the difference between Linux and Unix?
Unix is an older family of operating systems, and Linux is a separate kernel written independently to work in a similar way. Because it behaves like Unix without sharing its original code, Linux is often called "Unix-like."
What is the difference between the Linux kernel and a Linux distribution?
Strictly, Linux is just the kernel, the core created by Linus Torvalds. A distribution such as Ubuntu or Fedora bundles that kernel with additional software to make a complete, usable operating system.
What is the difference between Linux and Windows?
Linux is free and open-source, meaning anyone can view, modify, and share its code. Windows is proprietary commercial software owned by Microsoft, whose source code is not freely available.
Is Android based on Linux?
Yes. The Android mobile operating system is built on the Linux kernel, which makes it one of the most widely used Linux-based systems in the world.
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