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Duplex Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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duplex

[ˈdjuːˌplɛks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

real estate

A building that contains two separate living units, usually with one unit on top of the other.

Synonyms

semi-detached house, two-family house.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duplex

Used mainly in American English to describe a building that is divided into two apartments, each with a separate entrance.

  • They recently moved into a new duplex on Elm Street.
  • He bought a duplex to live in one unit and rent out the other.
two-family house

A term used to describe a house designed to accommodate two separate families, often used in real estate listings.

  • They are looking for a two-family house to accommodate their extended family.
  • The new development includes several two-family houses.
semi-detached house

Primarily used in British English to refer to a single building divided into two homes, sharing a common wall.

  • They live in a semi-detached house in the suburbs.
  • The semi-detached house offers more privacy than an apartment.

Examples of usage

  • The duplex has a one-bedroom unit on the first floor and a two-bedroom unit on the second floor.
  • She lives in a spacious duplex with her family.
Context #2 | Adjective

printing

Printing or writing on both sides of the paper.

Synonyms

double-sided, two-sided.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
duplex

In the context of printing or technology, refers to the ability to handle two-way communication or processing, such as in printers or network communication.

  • Our new printer supports duplex printing, which is more eco-friendly.
  • Duplex communication channels increase the efficiency of the network.
double-sided

Most often used for objects or materials that have two usable or functional sides, such as tape or printing paper.

  • I need double-sided tape to hang the posters.
  • Please print the documents on double-sided paper to save trees.
two-sided

Generally used to describe something that has two distinct sides or aspects, which can apply to physical objects or abstract concepts, and is less technical than 'double-sided'.

  • The two-sided coin was used to make the decision.
  • We need to consider the two-sided nature of the argument.

Examples of usage

  • This printer can automatically print duplex pages.
  • The duplex feature saves paper.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Duplex buildings are popular in urban areas where space is limited, allowing more families to live close together.
  • Many duplexes are designed with similar architectural features, making them look like mirror images of each other.

Real Estate

  • Investing in duplex properties can generate rental income from both sides, making them appealing for property owners.
  • Duplexes can be more affordable than single-family homes, providing a good option for first-time buyers.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, duplexes create a sense of community as families can live close yet maintain their independence.
  • Duplex living is often seen in cities with high population density, reflecting modern urban lifestyles.

Technology

  • In telecommunications and networking, 'duplex' refers to the ability to send and receive data in both directions, similar to how a duplex building has two separate living spaces.
  • There are also terms like 'full-duplex' and 'half-duplex', indicating whether communication can occur simultaneously or only one way at a time.

Origin of 'duplex'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin, where 'duplex' means 'two-fold' or 'two parts'.
  • It was first used in English around the mid-19th century to describe buildings that were double in nature.

The word 'duplex' originated from the Latin word 'duplex', which means 'double' or 'twofold'. The term was first used in English in the early 19th century to refer to a building divided into two separate living units. Over time, 'duplex' has become commonly used in real estate and printing industries to describe various double-sided or two-unit structures.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,891, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.