Ethernet

noun

Ether·net ˈē-thər-ˌnet

: a computer network architecture consisting of various specified local-area network protocols, devices, and connection methods

Word History

Etymology

from Ethernet, a trademark

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of Ethernet was in 1976

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Browse Nearby Words

etherize

Ethernet

etherophone

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Ethernet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Ethernet. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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