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Web Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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web

[web ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

internet technology

A network of interlinked documents accessed via the internet. It is used for information sharing, communication, and entertainment purposes.

Synonyms

internet, world wide web.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
web

Used casually to refer to websites, web pages, or the interconnected network of information available online. This term is often used informally.

  • I found a great recipe on the web.
  • There's so much information on the web these days.
internet

Refers to the global network of interconnected computers. Used in formal contexts or when discussing the infrastructure or the broader concept of connectivity.

  • The internet has revolutionized communication.
  • Many businesses rely heavily on the internet for their operations.
world wide web

The full form of 'web,' often used in a more formal context or to emphasize the concept of the internet as a whole, particularly in historical contexts.

  • The World Wide Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee.
  • Many websites are part of the World Wide Web.

Examples of usage

  • I found the information on the web.
  • She spends hours browsing the web for news.
Context #2 | Noun

spider

A fine network spun by a spider to catch prey. It is usually made of silk and can be found in corners, ceilings, or gardens.

Synonyms

cobweb, net.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
web

This is a repetition and should refer to the first entry for 'web'. Refer to that entry for context and examples.
cobweb

This word usually refers to an old, dusty spider's web that has been abandoned or neglected. It often has a negative connotation, implying dirtiness or neglect.

  • The corners of the forgotten attic were filled with cobwebs.
  • I had to clean the cobwebs off the old furniture.
net

This can refer to a mesh used for catching fish or other items, as well as the concept of a network, either digitally (like the internet) or physically (like a sports net).

  • The fisherman cast his net into the sea.
  • The soccer ball hit the back of the net.
  • He downloaded the software from the net.

Examples of usage

  • The spider's web glistened in the sunlight.
  • Be careful not to walk into the spider's web.
Context #3 | Verb

spider

To weave a web as a spider does. It involves creating a network of fine threads to catch prey or create a shelter.

Synonyms

spin, weave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
web

Refers specifically to a structurally intricate network, mainly used metaphorically or literally for spider webs and the interconnected aspects of the internet.

  • The internet is often referred to as the web
  • The spider’s web glistened with morning dew
spin

Often used when describing the rotation of something or the act of creating something quickly, such as yarn or stories. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to distorting information.

  • The dancer can spin very fast
  • Politicians often spin the facts to fit their narrative
weave

Typically used to describe the process of interlacing threads to make fabric or textiles. It can also mean to create something complex or intricate.

  • She learned how to weave blankets from her grandmother
  • The author managed to weave an intricate plot in his novel

Examples of usage

  • The spider webs in the garden are beautifully intricate.
  • The spider webbed the corner of the room overnight.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Spider silk is incredibly strong and can stretch up to five times its length without breaking.
  • Scientists study spider webs to inspire materials that are stronger and more flexible than steel.

Technology

  • The term 'web' is commonly associated with the internet, which connects millions of pages like a spider web connects threads.
  • The World Wide Web was invented in 1989 by Tim Berners-Lee to help share information easily across computers.

Literature

  • Webs often symbolize complexity and interconnectedness in stories, showing how people or events are related.
  • In poetry, webs can represent entrapment or the intricate nature of life, reflecting both beauty and danger.

Art

  • Artist Louise Bourgeois used spider imagery in her sculptures to explore the themes of motherhood and protection.
  • Webs have inspired various works in visual art, often representing the paradox of fragility and strength.

Origin of 'web'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'web' comes from the Old English 'webb', meaning 'to weave'.
  • Originally, it referred to anything woven, not just spider webs, reflecting a crafting tradition.

The word 'web' originated from the Old English word 'webb', meaning a woven fabric or a spider's net. It has evolved to represent interconnected networks, such as the internet, and intricate spider webs. The term 'web' gained popularity with the rise of the World Wide Web in the 1990s, becoming synonymous with the internet. Today, 'web' is commonly used to refer to online networks and spider webs alike, symbolizing connectivity and intricacy.

See also: webbing, webcam, webpage, webpages.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,042, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.