WordGarden.iointerface
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɪntəfˌeɪs/
US
- /ˈɪnərˌfeɪs/
Meanings
Noun
the part of a computer, app, or device through which a user controls it
a defined connection through which programs, devices, or systems exchange information
a boundary or shared area where two things meet or affect each other
More meaningsFewer meanings
the surface where two materials, liquids, or physical phases meet
Verb
to connect or interact with another system, organization, or person
Beyond the definition
Imagine two worlds needing to talk: that's where an interface comes in. It's the space between things where they meet and interact. Think about a computer screen; it's your interface with the digital world, letting you click buttons and see results. But interfaces aren't just for computers. A reception desk can act as an interface between you and a company. Even the dashboard of your car is an interface, showing you important information and letting you control some features. It's all about how things connect and communicate.
The word "interface" originally described the surface where two liquids meet, like oil and water. But today, its meaning is much broader! An interface is generally a point of interaction between people, systems, or devices. It's the means by which they exchange information or work together.
In technology, an interface is crucial. A user interface (UI), like the buttons and menus on your phone, allows you to control the device. A software or programming interface lets different programs "talk" to each other. Think of it as a shared system that makes communication smooth and clear.
But interfaces aren't limited to tech. In science, an interface can mean the place where two different substances or systems meet. In work or social settings, it can also mean the point of contact between groups, departments, or people.
The key is that an interface isn't just part of one thing; it's the connection between them. It defines how they relate, communicate, and work together. So next time you interact with something – a website, a friend, or even your car – remember you're engaging with its interface.
Examples
- 1
App navigation
The app has a clean interface, so new users can find things quickly.
- 2
Checkout design
We redesigned the user interface to make the checkout process simpler.
- 3
Medical records
This page gives doctors one interface for viewing test results and patient notes.
- 4
Education technology
The report looks at the interface between education and technology.
- Patternthe interface between A and B
the area where two subjects, systems, or activities connect
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
System integration
The new payment system must interface with the old database.
- Patterninterface with + system
connect and work together with it
- 6
Business communication
In her job, she interfaces with clients and the design team every day.
- Usageinterface with someone
communicate and work with them; formal or businesslike
See also
Similar
- connection
- link
- point of contact
Shades of meaning
- front end
- control panel
- gateway
Contrast
- implementation
- backend
Used with (collocations)
- user interface
- programming interface
- interface design
- interface between
Word family
Explore
- api
- usability
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- interfacenounverb
Forms
- interfacespluralnounverb
- interfacing-ing formverbnoun
- interfacedpast tenseverbnoun