Ethernet

noun

Ether·​net ˈē-thər-ˌnet How to pronounce Ethernet (audio)
: a computer network architecture consisting of various specified local-area network protocols, devices, and connection methods

Examples of Ethernet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Turn off Wi-Fi and unplug any Ethernet connection to help prevent potential communication with an attacker. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2026 Apple eliminated the cheaper 64GB, Wi-Fi-only model, leaving just the 128GB, Wi-Fi and Ethernet model — and bumped up its price to $300. — John Higgins, The Verge, 14 Oct. 2026 This unit is simple to set up, with support for up to four monitors, Wi-Fi 6E, Gigabit Ethernet, and plenty of ports. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026 Twenty-four centuries later, Jonathan Franzen destroyed his laptop’s Ethernet port so he wouldn’t be tempted to go online. — Meghan O’Gieblyn, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for Ethernet

Word History

Etymology

from Ethernet, a trademark

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Ethernet was in 1976

Rhymes for Ethernet

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Browse Nearby Words

etherizer
Ethernet
etherophone
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Cite this Entry

“Ethernet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Ethernet. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Ethernet

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Ethernet

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