[link] n [ME, of Scand origin; akin to ON hlekkr chain; akin to OE hlanc lank] (15c) 1: a connecting structure: as a (1): a single ring or division of a chain (2): one of the standardized divisions of a surveyor's chain that is 7.92 inches (20.1 centimeters) long and serves as a measure of length b: cuff link c: bond 3c d: an intermediate rod or piece for transmitting force or motion; esp: a short connecting rod with a hole or pin at each end e: the fusible member of an electrical fuse
2: something analogous to a link of chain: as a: a segment of sausage in a chain b: a connecting element or factor "found a ~ between smoking and cancer" c: a unit in a communication system d: an identifier attached to an element (as an index term) in a system in order to indicate or permit connection with other similarly identified elements
[2]link vt (15c): to couple or connect by or as if by a link ~ vi: to become connected by or as if by a link syn see join -- link.er n [3]link n [perh. modif. of ML linchinus candle, alter. of L lychnus, fr. Gk lychnos; akin to Gk leukos white--more at light] (1526): a torch formerly used to light a person's way through the streets [4]link vi [origin unknown] (1715) Scot: to skip smartly along