Net: meaning, definitions and examples

A common, casual term for the internet, frequently used in everyday conversation.

• I found a great recipe on the net.
• She spends a lot of time surfing the net.

Typically used to refer to the World Wide Web, which is a part of the internet. It is used in both technical and casual contexts.

• I read an interesting article on the web.
• The company has a lot of information available on its web page.

A more technical or science fiction term, often used in discussions about the digital world or internet culture.

• In cyberspace, you can communicate with people from all over the globe.
• He felt like he was drifting through cyberspace during the long coding session.

Describes being connected to the internet or activities that occur on the internet. It's commonly used in both casual and formal contexts.

• The course is available online.
• I'm currently online, so feel free to send me the files.

A 'net' is typically used for catching fish or sports activities like basketball or volleyball.

• The fisherman threw his net into the sea.
• She aimed the ball straight into the net.

A 'mesh' refers to a material made of interlacing threads, often used in clothing, screen doors, or filters.

• She wore a dress with a mesh overlay.
• He installed a mesh screen to keep the insects out.

A 'web' is often used to describe a spider's creation or the Internet, known as the World Wide Web.

• The spider spun its web between the trees.
• She found the information she needed on the web.

A 'trap' is a device designed to catch and hold animals or people and has a negative connotation.

• They used a trap to catch the mouse.
• The detectives set a trap for the thief.

Used again because it can also mean gaining a specific result or amount after deductions.

• The company aimed to net a profit by the end of the year.
• He managed to net a substantial amount after expenses.

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe the act of grabbing, intercepting, or understanding something.

• Can you catch the ball?
• She managed to catch the last train.

Often used in the context of seizing or taking control of something or someone, either physically or figuratively.

• The soldiers managed to capture the enemy base.
• The photographer captured the beauty of the sunset.

Typically used in the context of trapping animals, and sometimes has a negative connotation when referring to trapping people in deceitful ways.

• The hunter set a snare to catch rabbits.
• She felt like she was in a financial snare after agreeing to the loan terms.