Definition

1. Noun:

   • A component of production; something that goes into the production of output: "Input" refers to any resource, material, or factor that is used in a process to create a product or result.
   • Any stimulating information or event; acts to arouse action: "Input" can also mean information, ideas, or feedback that is provided to influence a discussion, decision, or process.
   • A statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information: In conversation, an "input" is a comment or contribution someone makes.
   • Signal going into an electronic system: In electronics and computing, "input" is data or a signal that is entered into a system or device for processing.

2. Verb:

   • To enter (data or a program) into a computer: The action of putting information or instructions into a computer or electronic system.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • Labor and raw materials are essential inputs for manufacturing. (Labor and raw materials are essential components for production.)
  • We need more input from the marketing team before finalizing the plan. (We need more information or feedback from the marketing team.)
  • Thank you for your valuable input during the meeting. (Thank you for your useful comment during the meeting.)
  • Check the audio input on the recording device. (Check the signal entering the recording device.)

• Verb:

  • Please input your password to log in. (Please enter your password to log in.)
  • The data was inputted into the spreadsheet manually. (The data was entered into the spreadsheet manually.)

Advanced Usage

• "To have input into something": to have the opportunity to contribute to or influence a decision or process.

  • Employees should have input into workplace policies. (Employees should have a chance to contribute to workplace policies.)

• "Input/output (I/O)": a common term in computing referring to the communication between a computer and the outside world.

  • The program manages the input/output of data from the sensor. (The program manages the entering and exiting of data from the sensor.)

Variants and Related Words

• Inputted/Input (v, past tense): Both "input" and "inputted" are accepted as past tense forms of the verb.

  • She input/inputted the coordinates yesterday.

• Input device (n): a hardware component used to provide data to a computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).

  • A scanner is an input device.

Synonyms

• Noun: Contribution, feedback, data, resource, factor.
• Verb: Enter, key in, insert, feed.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Input" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. Its usage is typically direct as a verb or noun.)

Related Idioms

(Note: There are no common idioms specifically centered on the word "input.")

Noun

1. a component of production; something that goes into the production of output
2. any stimulating information or event; acts to arouse action
3. a statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information
   • from time to time she contributed a personal comment on his account
4. signal going into an electronic system

Verb

1. enter (data or a program) into a computer