hub

noun

ˈhəb 

1

: the central part of a circular object (such as a wheel or propeller)

spokes attached to the hub of the wheel

2

a

: a center of activity : focal point

The island is a major tourist hub.

b

: an airport or city through which an airline routes most of its traffic

c

: a central device that connects multiple computers on a single network (see network entry 1 sense 3b)

3

: a steel punch from which a working die (see die entry 2 sense 3a) for a coin or medal is made

Synonyms

• axis
• base
• capital
• center
• central
• core
• cynosure
• epicenter
• eye
• focus
• ground zero
• heart
• locus
• mecca
• navel
• nerve center
• nexus
• nucleus
• omphalos
• seat

Examples of hub in a Sentence

the hub of the city

She was at the hub of all the activity.

All of the airline's coast-to-coast flights pass through its hub.

The spokes attach to the hub of the wheel.

Recent Examples on the Web

The appeal lies in creating a space where New Yorkers can enjoy exceptional service, free parking (a rarity in the region), and an experience that feels just as special as a trip to Manhattan’s luxury hubs. —Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

That will include shifting some production — particularly control room production — from New York and Washington, D.C., to CNN’s Atlanta hub. —Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 23 Jan. 2025

Princess Kate has long been a fan of the British eyewear brand, which sells both eyeglasses and sunglasses at its two hubs in London. —Janine Henni, People.com, 23 Jan. 2025

Samsung says that all data from the sensors used by Home AI is stored locally on your SmartThings hub and does not go to the cloud. —Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, The Verge, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of hob entry 2

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hub

• hub-and-spoke

Kids Definition

hub

noun

ˈhəb 

1

: the central part of a circular object (as a wheel)

2

: a center of activity

Medical Definition

hub

noun

ˈhəb 

: the enlarged base by which a hollow needle may be attached to a device (as a syringe)