Ethernet

noun

Ether·​net ˈē-thər-ˌnet 

: 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

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

The Tray Monitor measures individual battery voltage and temperature using the isoSPI protocol, while the cabinets connect through dual Ethernet ports. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026

Both Ethernet ports can support Power over Ethernet (PoE), too. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 9 Sep. 2026

Perhaps most famously, Robert Metcalfe, working at Xerox PARC in 1973, roughed out some early designs for what would become Ethernet, though contrary to popular belief, no napkin was involved. — Harry Goldstein, IEEE Spectrum, 29 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from Ethernet, a trademark

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Ethernet

• alphabet
• arpanet
• bassinet
• bayonet
• biuret
• cigarette
• clarinet
• coronet
• coverlet
• dataset
• epithet
• heavyset