/ ˈnetwɜːk; NAmE -wɜːrk/ noun , verb
■ noun
1.
a complicated system of roads, lines, tubes, nerves, etc. that cross each other and are connected to each other :
a rail / road / canal network
a network of veins
2.
a closely connected group of people, companies, etc. that exchange information, etc. :
a communications / distribution network
a network of friends
3.
( computing ) a number of computers and other devices that are connected together so that equipment and information can be shared :
The office network allows users to share files and software, and to use a central printer.
—see also LAN , WAN
4.
a group of radio or television stations in different places that are connected and that broadcast the same programmes at the same time :
the four big US television networks
•
IDIOMS
see old boy
■ verb
1.
[ vn ] ( computing ) to connect a number of computers and other devices together so that equipment and information can be shared
2.
[ vn ] to broadcast a television or radio programme on stations in several different areas at the same time
3.
[ v ] to try to meet and talk to people who may be useful to you in your work :
Conferences are a good place to network.