internet

UK: 'internet', 'Internet': /ˈɪntəˌnɛt/

US: /ˈɪntɚˌnɛt/

US: (in′tər net′)

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

internet / ˈɪntəˌnɛt/ noun

1. the internet ⇒ (sometimes capital) the single worldwide computer network that interconnects other computer networks, on which end-user services, such as World Wide Web sites or data archives, are located, enabling data and other information to be exchanged
   Also known as: the Net
2. break the internet ⇒ (of an event, image, or phenomenon) to cause a large number of people to attempt to access the internet
3. to trend extensively on social media
4. the internet of things ⇒ a network of objects that are fitted with microchips and connected to the internet, enabling them to interact with each other and to be controlled remotely
   Abbreviation: IoT

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

In•ter•net /ˈɪntɚˌnɛt/   n. 

1. Computing [uncountable* usually: the + ~] a large computer network linking smaller computer networks worldwide.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

In•ter•net  (in′tər net′), n. 

1. Computing a large computer network linking smaller computer networks worldwide (usually prec. by the).

• 1990–95

In•ter•net  (in′tər net′), n. 

1. Computing a large computer network linking smaller computer networks worldwide (usually prec. by the).

• 1985–90