network

A group of computers and other devices connected so they can share information.

• The printer is on our network.
• I cannot connect to the wireless network.
• All the office computers share files through a single network.

Similar words: computer network

Common phrases: wireless network, computer network, local network

A group of connected things, such as roads, lines, or services.

• The city has a good bus network.
• They built a network of pipes under the streets.
• Storms damaged several parts of the electricity network.

How to use it: a network of something (A network of narrow paths connects the villages.)

Similar words: system, web

Common phrases: rail network, road network, network of something

A group of people who know one another and share help, information, or business opportunities.

• My friends form a strong support network.
• He used his professional network to find a job.
• How can I build a network of reliable contacts?

How to use it: a network of people (She has built a network of local business owners.)

Similar words: circle, web of contacts

Common phrases: support network, professional network, network of friends

To meet people and build relationships that may help you in your work.

• I go to these events to network.
• He networked with potential clients over lunch.
• Have you tried networking with people in your industry?

How to use it: network with someone (She networks with other designers at industry events.)

Similar words: make contacts

Common phrases: network with someone, network at conferences

To connect computers or other electronic devices so they can share information.

• We need to network these computers.
• They networked every printer in the building.
• Can these older machines be networked together?

How to use it: network something together (We networked the computers together using cables.); network something to something (The technician networked the printer to the office computers.)

Similar words: connect, interconnect

Opposites: disconnect

Common phrases: network computers, network office devices

To connect several things or groups so they work together as a system.

• The plan will network local health services.
• Several research centres have been networked together.
• They networked the separate agencies to share resources.

How to use it: network something together (The project networks local support services together.)

Similar words: interconnect, link, connect

Opposites: disconnect

Common phrases: network local services, network something together