/on"luyn", awn"-/ , adj.
1. operating under the direct control of, or connected to, a main computer (opposed to off-line ).
2. connected by computer to one or more other computers or networks, as through a commercial electronic information service or the Internet.
3. using a computer.
4. Radio. (of a network) supplying affiliated stations with all or a substantial part of their programming.
5. Television. of or pertaining to the final editing of a videotaped program.
6. done or accomplished while in operation or active service: on-line maintenance.
7. located on major routes or rail lines: on-line industries.
adv.
8. with or through a computer, esp. over a network.
Also, online, on line . Cf. off-line .
[ 1945-50 ]