noun

USB

yoo-es-BEE

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USB (noun) means a standard system of connectors and cables for linking devices such as keyboards, phones, printers and drives to a computer, and for supplying power to them. Example: “Plug the microphone into any USB port on the back of the machine.”

noun

A standard system of connectors and cables for linking devices such as keyboards, phones, printers and drives to a computer, and for supplying power to them.

"Plug the microphone into any USB port on the back of the machine."

"The laptop charges over USB-C, so one cable does everything."

informal A small portable storage device that plugs into such a port; a memory stick.

"I've put the presentation on a USB in case the wifi fails."

How to use USB

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe standard plug and cable used to connect gadgets to a computer, or the little memory stick itself.

When to use it

Universal and neutral. Always written in capitals.

Memory tip

'A USB' meaning a memory stick is informal but extremely common; in writing, 'USB drive' or 'flash drive' is clearer.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

USB-C HDMI Thunderbolt →

Common pairings

USB port USB-C cable USB stick plug into USB

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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 “USB” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Plug the microphone into any _____ port on the back of the machine.

Etymology

An initialism of Universal Serial Bus.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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flash drive memory stick thumb drive pen drive

Related words

SSD stiffy

Frequently asked questions

What does USB stand for?

Universal Serial Bus. 'Universal' because one connector type was meant to replace the many incompatible ports computers used before it, and 'serial bus' because data travels one bit at a time along a shared connection.

What is the difference between USB-C and USB 3.0?

They describe different things. USB-C is the shape of the connector, the small oval one that plugs in either way up. USB 3.0 and its successors are speed standards. A USB-C cable can carry a fast or a slow standard, which is why two identical-looking cables can perform very differently.

Is it safe to plug in a USB stick you found?

No. A drive can be configured to act as a keyboard and type commands the moment it is connected, or to carry malware that runs automatically. Discarded drives are a genuine and long-established attack method.

What is the meaning of USB?

"USB" (noun) means a standard system of connectors and cables for linking devices such as keyboards, phones, printers and drives to a computer, and for supplying power to them.

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