interface

1 of 2

noun

in·​ter·​face ˈin-tər-ˌfās How to pronounce interface (audio)
1
a
: the place at which independent and often unrelated systems meet and act on or communicate with each other
the man-machine interface
b
: the means by which interaction or communication is achieved at an interface
2
: a surface forming a common boundary of two bodies, spaces, or phases
an oil-water interface
interfacial adjective

interface

2 of 2

verb

interfaced; interfacing; interfaces

transitive verb

1
: to connect by means of an interface
interface a machine with a computer
2
: to serve as an interface for

intransitive verb

1
: to become interfaced
2
: to interact or coordinate harmoniously

Examples of interface in a Sentence

Noun the interface between engineering and science The software has a user interface that's easy to operate. We installed an interface between the computer and the typesetting machine. Verb interface a machine with a computer the point at which the two machines interface
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Noun
To keep frustrations to a minimum, choose a music player with controls that are easy for little fingers to press and an interface that matches their skill level. Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 2 Nov. 2024 Like compact cars, Nissan's infotainment operation has evolved for the better in recent years, with modern graphics and an easier-to-use interface. Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024
Verb
In turn, those changes will have a foundational impact on how network operators interface with their systems. Mike Bushong, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024 Aiming to train the next generation of goldsmiths, these programs will shape not just a purely technical production professional, but a cross-functional expert who can interface with other functions or entities to manage a broader part of the process. Andrea Onate, WWD, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for interface 

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

1962, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of interface was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near interface

Cite this Entry

“Interface.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interface. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

interface

1 of 2 noun
in·​ter·​face ˈint-ər-ˌfās How to pronounce interface (audio)
1
: a surface forming a common boundary of two bodies, spaces, or phases
an interface between oil and water
2
a
: the place at which independent systems meet and act on or communicate with each other
b
: the ways by which interaction or communication is brought about at an interface
interfacial adjective

interface

2 of 2 verb
1
: to connect or become connected through an interface
2
: to serve as an interface for

Medical Definition

interface

noun
in·​ter·​face ˈint-ər-ˌfās How to pronounce interface (audio)
: a surface forming a common boundary of two bodies, spaces, or phases
interfaces between various tissues such as skin, fatty tissue, and muscleH. P. Schwan
interface transitive verb
interfaced; interfacing
interfacial adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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