connector: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral; common in technical, business, and general contexts.
Quick answer
What does “connector” mean?
A device or object that physically joins two or more things together, allowing communication, flow, or continuity between them.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device or object that physically joins two or more things together, allowing communication, flow, or continuity between them.
A person, organisation, or concept that links people, groups, ideas, or systems, facilitating interaction, networking, or understanding.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference, but 'connector' is slightly more common in US technical marketing, where UK English might occasionally use 'coupling' or 'link' for physical items. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Neutral in both. In business/tech contexts, slightly more dynamic/positive than a mere 'link'.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English technical documentation and networking contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “connector” in a Sentence
connector between A and Bconnector for (a device/system)connector that + clauseVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a person who facilitates networking between companies or individuals. 'She's a great connector in the startup ecosystem.'
Academic
Used in systems theory, linguistics (discourse connectors), and engineering. 'A logical connector linking two propositions.'
Everyday
Common for physical objects like chargers, hoses, or train carriages. 'I need a new connector for my headphones.'
Technical
Precise term in electronics, computing, plumbing, and mechanics. 'The RJ45 connector is loose.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “connector”
- Misspelling as 'conector' (single 'n').
- Using 'connector' for software protocols instead of hardware interfaces where 'driver' or 'API' is more accurate.
- Overusing in social contexts where 'networker' or 'liaison' might be more precise.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's frequently used for people or concepts that link systems, ideas, or networks, especially in business and sociology.
A connector joins two compatible ends. An adaptor changes the interface to make two incompatible ends connect.
No, the verb is 'connect'. 'Connector' is only a noun.
It is neutral-register, appropriate in both technical manuals and everyday conversation depending on the context.
A device or object that physically joins two or more things together, allowing communication, flow, or continuity between them.
Connector: in British English it is pronounced /kəˈnɛktə/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəˈnɛktər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific; the word itself is not idiomatic]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CONNECTOR as something that helps you CONNECT things, either physically (like a plug) or socially (like a friend who introduces people).
Conceptual Metaphor
BRIDGING IS CONNECTING (e.g., 'bridging gaps', 'serving as a bridge'), PATHWAYS/CHANNELS FOR FLOW (e.g., of electricity, information, relationships).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'connector' LEAST likely to be used?