Client

Definition

Client is a noun that refers to a person or organization receiving professional services, often from a lawyer, accountant, or consultant. It can also refer to a computer or software that accesses services from a server in a network.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈklaɪənt/
• Respelling: KLY-uhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈklaɪənt/
• Respelling: KLY-uhnt

Etymology

The word "client" originates from the Latin "cliens," meaning "follower" or "dependent," and was historically used to refer to someone who relied on the support of a more powerful person. It entered Middle English through Old French "client."

Derivatives

• Clientele (noun)
• Clientship (noun)
• Clientage (noun)
• Client-based (adjective)
• Client-centered (adjective)

Synonyms

• Customer
• Patron
• Consumer

Antonyms

• Provider
• Supplier
• Server

Usage

The term "client" is used in various fields to refer to individuals or organizations that receive services. For example, "The law firm represented its client in court," or "The software client connects to the server to access files."

Related Terms

• Service: Assistance provided to a client, customer, or user.
• Consultant: A professional who provides expert advice to clients.
• Server: In computing, a system that provides resources or services to clients on a network.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person or organization receiving professional services: Refers to individuals or entities who engage professionals, like lawyers or consultants, for specific services.
  • Example: "The company values its clients and offers personalized service."
• A computer or software accessing resources from a server: Used in computing to describe software or devices that connect to a server for services or information.
  • Example: "The email client synchronizes messages from the server."