Terminal: meaning, definitions and examples

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terminal

 

[ ˈtɜːrmɪnl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer software

A terminal is a device that allows the user to communicate with a computer system. It typically consists of a keyboard and a screen, providing a user interface to interact with the computer. Terminals can be physical devices or software applications.

Synonyms

client, console, interface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
terminal

This word is listed twice and has the same meaning in both entries; see the first entry labeled 'terminal'.

console

In computing, this refers to a text interface for administering and managing computer systems. It can also refer to a gaming console.

  • Use the console to check the server logs.
  • I just bought a new gaming console for my living room.
interface

Refers to a shared boundary across which two or more separate components of a computer system exchange information. It can also refer to the user interface (UI) of software.

  • The software interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
  • Designing a seamless interface between these two systems is challenging.
client

Used in both computing and business. In computing, it refers to a piece of software that accesses services provided by a server. In business, it refers to a person or organization using professional services.

  • The email client allows you to access your emails from multiple devices.
  • Our company values every client and strives to meet their needs.

Examples of usage

  • You can access the mainframe using a terminal.
  • The terminal displays the output of the program.
Context #2 | Noun

transportation

A terminal is a building or facility where transportation vehicles arrive and depart. It can be a bus terminal, train terminal, airport terminal, etc.

Synonyms

depot, hub, station.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
terminal

Use 'terminal' when referring to a major point of origin or destination for transport, such as at an airport or a port. It's often associated with air travel or shipping.

  • We waited for our flight in the airport terminal.
  • The cruise ship docked at the terminal.
station

A 'station' is a place where passenger transport vehicles, like trains or buses, stop to pick up or drop off passengers. It can also refer to a building where public activities occur, such as a police station.

  • I’ll meet you at the train station.
  • They built a new bus station downtown.
depot

A 'depot' is a facility for the storage and maintenance of vehicles or goods. It often refers to places where buses, trucks, or trains are kept when not in use.

  • The city buses return to the depot at night.
  • The logistics company operates a large depot for its trucks.
hub

A 'hub' is a central point of activity and connections, often in the context of transport or logistics networks. This term emphasizes efficiency and the connection of different routes.

  • The airline uses Atlanta as its main hub.
  • This city is becoming a major transportation hub in the region.

Examples of usage

  • We arrived at the bus terminal just in time.
  • The airport terminal was bustling with travelers.

Translations

Translations of the word "terminal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 terminal

🇮🇳 टर्मिनल

🇩🇪 Terminal

🇮🇩 terminal

🇺🇦 термінал

🇵🇱 terminal

🇯🇵 ターミナル

🇫🇷 terminal

🇪🇸 terminal

🇹🇷 terminal

🇰🇷 터미널

🇸🇦 محطة

🇨🇿 terminál

🇸🇰 terminál

🇨🇳 终端

🇸🇮 terminal

🇮🇸 stöð

🇰🇿 терминал

🇬🇪 ტერმინალი

🇦🇿 terminal

🇲🇽 terminal

Etymology

The word 'terminal' originated in the late 15th century from the Latin word 'terminalis,' meaning 'pertaining to a boundary or end.' It evolved to refer to the end of a railway line or a transportation station. In the context of computers, the term 'terminal' emerged in the mid-20th century with the development of interactive computing systems.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,843, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.