Broadband

Definition

Broadband refers to high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than traditional dial-up access. It encompasses a wide range of high-capacity transmission technologies, including fiber-optic, DSL, cable, and satellite, allowing for the rapid transfer of large amounts of data.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrɔdˌbænd/
• Respelling: BRAWD-band

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrɔːdˌbænd/
• Respelling: BRAWD-band

The pronunciation of "broadband" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in accent.

Etymology

The term "broadband" originated from the combination of "broad," meaning wide, and "band," which refers to a range of frequencies. Initially used in telecommunications to describe wide-frequency transmission, it has evolved to refer specifically to high-speed internet connections.

Derivatives

• Broadbanding (noun)
• Broadbanded (adjective)
• Broadband connection (noun phrase)
• Broadband network (noun phrase)
• Broadband access (noun phrase)

Synonyms

• High-speed internet
• DSL
• Fiber-optic

Antonyms

• Dial-up
• Narrowband
• Low-speed internet

Usage

The term "broadband" is widely used to describe high-speed internet access. For example, "The company offers broadband services to rural areas," or "She upgraded to broadband to improve her internet speed." Broadband is often essential for modern activities like streaming, online gaming, and remote work.

Related Terms

• Bandwidth: The capacity of a network to transmit data within a specific time frame.
• Router: A device that routes data between networks, commonly used with broadband connections.
• Fiber-optic: A type of broadband that transmits data as light through fiber-optic cables, offering high-speed connections.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A high-capacity transmission technique: Refers to methods that enable the transmission of large data volumes quickly, essential for modern internet usage.
  • Example: "Broadband technology allows for fast data transmission across networks."
• High-speed internet service: Commonly refers to internet connections that are faster than traditional dial-up, often used for streaming, gaming, and other data-intensive activities.
  • Example: "Many households use broadband to ensure fast internet speeds."