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Dongle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”Œ
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dongle

[หˆdษ”ล‹ษกษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

hardware device

A dongle is a small hardware device that connects to a computer or other electronic device to enable certain functionalities, often including wireless communication. Dongles are commonly used for connecting to a network, adding extra USB ports, or providing digital rights management for software applications. They can take various forms, such as USB sticks or adapters, and are often specific to certain devices or operating systems. In recent years, with the rise of wireless technologies, dongles may also refer to devices that facilitate Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Synonyms

adapter, connector, peripheral.

Examples of usage

  • I plugged the dongle into my laptop to connect to the internet.
  • The game requires a dongle to verify the license.
  • She bought a new dongle for her tablet to access 4G.
  • He uses a USB dongle for extra storage on his computer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Dongles can serve various functions, such as adding WiFi capability, connecting Bluetooth devices, or even expanding memory.
  • Some video game consoles utilize dongles for wireless controllers, allowing gamers to play without cords.
  • With the rise of smart devices, manufacturers have developed dongles for streaming media, enabling older televisions to access modern content.

Cultural Impact

  • Dongles have become a common accessory in modern technology, often taken for granted until they are needed.
  • Movies and TV shows sometimes reference dongles to highlight the complexity or absurdity of modern technology.
  • Tech companies often create catchy names for their products, and 'dongle' stands out as both amusing and memorable.

Challenges

  • Many people find dongles annoying because they can be small, easy to lose, and sometimes difficult to plug in.
  • Users often face frustration when software fails to recognize a dongle, affecting functionality and usage.
  • The variety of dongles available can confuse consumers, as each one may serve a different, specific purpose.

Origin of 'dongle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dongle' is believed to have originated in the 1980s, likely a playful combination of 'dangle' and 'bangle'.
  • Its first known usage referred to a device that protected software from piracy by requiring a physical key.
  • At the time of its creation, the tech world was rapidly expanding, leading to new terminology that reflected emerging technologies.

The term 'dongle' is believed to have originated in the 1980s, deriving from a combination of 'dong,' which may reference the sound made by the device when plugged in, and the suffix '-le,' which is often used to denote smallness. Initially, dongles were used for software protection, helping to verify whether users had legitimate licenses for their programs. As technology progressed, the functionality of dongles evolved, incorporating connectivity features for various devices. The concept behind a dongle remained related to security and connectivity, attributed to the increasing need for portable solutions. Today, dongles are ubiquitous in the tech industry, highlighting their essential role in both hardware and software integration.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,617, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.