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Definition of ethernet

ethernet

/ˈiː.θər.nɛt/
eth · er · net
Plural:ethernets
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ethernet Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A widely used computer networking technology and system of protocols for connecting devices within a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) via coaxial, twisted-pair, or fiber-optic cables.

Example

"Connecting the desktop computer directly to the router via ethernet provided a much faster and more stable internet connection than wireless networking."

• Nearby Words

ether
ethereal
ethereally
ethernet
ethic
ethical
ethicality

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1973 by American computer engineer Robert Metcalfe at Xerox PARC, combining 'ether' (in reference to the historical physics concept of luminiferous ether as a passive medium carrying electromagnetic waves) and 'net' (short for network).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ethernet. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ethernet
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