Definition

1. Noun:

   • A system of interconnected electronic components or circuits: A structure where multiple electronic parts are linked to function together.
   • A system of intersecting lines or channels: A pattern of lines, roads, or passages that cross and connect.
   • An open fabric woven together at regular intervals: A material made of crisscrossed threads, strings, or wires with spaces in between.
   • A broadcasting system: A group of linked radio or television stations that transmit the same programs.
   • An interconnected system of things or people: A complex, interconnected group of entities, such as businesses, computers, or social contacts.

2. Verb:

   • To communicate and interact within a group, especially to exchange information or develop professional contacts: The act of building and maintaining relationships for mutual benefit, often in a business context.

Examples

• Noun:

  • The computer network crashed, leaving the office without internet.
  • A vast network of highways connects the major cities.
  • She bought a decorative wire network to support the climbing plants.
  • The show is broadcast on a major television network.
  • He has a strong professional network of former colleagues and clients.

• Verb:

  • It's important to network at industry conferences to find new opportunities.

Advanced Usage

• "To build a network": To intentionally create a group of contacts.

  • She moved to the city to build a network in the finance industry.

• "Network of support": A group of people who provide help and encouragement.

  • During difficult times, her network of friends was invaluable.

Variants and Related Words

• Networking (n): The action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.

  • Effective networking is a key skill for entrepreneurs.

• Networked (adj): Connected as part of a network.

  • All the offices are networked for shared file access.

Synonyms

• Noun: Web, grid, system, complex, interconnection.
• Verb: Connect, mingle, socialize (professionally), interact.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Network with: To interact with a specific group of people.
  • You should try to network with other managers in your field.

Related Idioms

• "It's not what you know, it's who you know": This common saying highlights the importance of having a strong personal or professional network.
  • He got the job through his uncle—it just goes to show, it's not what you know, it's who you know.

Noun

1. (electronics) a system of interconnected electronic components or circuits
2. a system of intersecting lines or channels
   • a railroad network
   • a network of canals
3. an open fabric of string or rope or wire woven together at regular intervals
4. (broadcasting) a communication system consisting of a group of broadcasting stations that all transmit the same programs
   • the networks compete to broadcast important sports events
5. an interconnected system of things or people
   • he owned a network of shops
   • retirement meant dropping out of a whole network of people who had been part of my life
   • tangled in a web of cloth

Verb

1. communicate with and within a group
   • You have to network if you want to get a good job