on line

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of on linenext
: in or into operation
bringing the new factory on line

online

2 of 2

adjective

: connected to, served by, or available through a system and especially a computer or telecommunications system (such as the Internet)
an online database
also : done while connected to such a system
online shopping
online games
online searching
online adverb

Examples of on line in a Sentence

Adjective The city libraries are all online. He likes to engage in online chats.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Teachers took on a hybrid role, instructing in their classrooms while also accommodating the online learners. Jourdan Rodrigue, New York Times, 28 May 2026 Young people with online careers saw their incomes evaporate. Amir-Hussein Radjy, Los Angeles Times, 28 May 2026 Jim Lehrman, a Pleasanton resident and hydrogeologist, has advocated against the new wells, citing an online petition with over 500 signatures that aims to stop them at risk of further PFAS contamination to the region’s drinking water aquifer. Kyle Martin, Mercury News, 27 May 2026 The Digest The online prediction platform Kalshihas launched a new category of predictions linked to art auction sales. Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for on line

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of on line was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20line. Accessed 30 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

online

adjective
ˈȯn-ˈlīn
ˈän-
: relating to or connected to a computer or telecommunications system (as the Internet)
an online database
online adverb

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