Dotcom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dotcom
[ˈdɒt.kɒm ]
Definition
internet company
The term 'dotcom' refers to a company or organization that operates primarily on the internet. It is derived from the '.com' domain suffix, which is commonly used for commercial websites. Dotcoms became particularly popular during the late 1990s and early 2000s during the dot-com bubble when many startups emerged aiming to capitalize on the burgeoning internet economy. While many dotcoms succeeded, others failed spectacularly when the bubble burst in 2000, serving as a cautionary tale about overvaluation in the tech industry.
Synonyms
internet company, online business, web startup.
Examples of usage
- The dotcom era led to many innovations in technology.
- Investors are cautious about new dotcom ventures.
- Many dotcoms went public during the 90s.
Translations
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Origin of 'dotcom'
The term 'dotcom' has its origins in the early days of the internet when companies began to establish their presence online. The '.com' domain was one of the first top-level domains introduced in 1985. It was initially intended for commercial entities, hence the name 'dotcom.' As the internet became more widely accessible in the late 1990s, the use of '.com' domains exploded, and many startups were formed, leading to what is known as the dot-com boom. This period was characterized by a heavy investment in tech companies, many of which were affiliated with '.com' domains. However, in the early 2000s, the bubble burst, resulting in significant financial losses for investors and a wave of bankruptcies among dotcom companies. Despite this, the term remains a staple in discussions about internet-based businesses and startups.