Internet

noun

In·​ter·​net ˈin-tər-ˌnet 

variants or internet

: an electronic communications network that connects computer networks and organizational computer facilities around the world

—used with the except when being used attributively

doing research on the Internet

an Internet search

Note: In U.S. publications, the capitalized form Internet continues to be more common than internet, although the lowercase form is rapidly gaining more widespread use. In British publications, internet is now the more common form.

compare world wide web

Examples of Internet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Last year, the Internet Crime Complaint Center received 2,825 reports of ransomware attacks across the United States, resulting in losses of more than $59.6 million. —Summer Lin, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2024

The company also requests that Damian direct Internet service providers to cease hosting these websites as well as websites illicitly furnishing financial and technical assistance. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 9 July 2024

Opponents of the bill include tech company trade associations Technet, Internet Coalition and Chamber of Progress; the California Chamber of Commerce; and numerous local chambers of commerce. —Laurel Rosenhall, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2024

Greater online surveillance Internet freedom in Cambodia has experienced a drastic regression under Hun Sen’s rule, rights groups say. —Heather Chen, CNN, 27 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1986, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing Internet

• Internet of Things
• Internet service provider
• the Internet
• Voice over Internet Protocol

Kids Definition

Internet

noun

In·​ter·​net ˈint-ər-ˌnet 

: a communications system that connects computers and computer networks all over the world