user interface

American

noun

Digital Technology.

the interface features through which users interact with the hardware and software of computers and other electronic devices. UI

Etymology

Origin of user interface

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We’ve married the user interface with AI, and AI is working hand-in-glove with the user interface.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Instead of the MS-DOS-like “command line” interface that the core app has, Cowork displays a more friendly, graphical user interface.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 17, 2026

The updates include a lot of things fans have asked for, such as improving the user interface, making combat more consistent, and removing systems that make people feel pressured to log in every day.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

“Voice is a very natural user interface, as are hand gestures.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 18, 2025

Describes a user interface under which "What You See Is What You Get", as opposed to one that uses more-or-less obscure commands which do not result in immediate visual feedback.

From The Jargon File, Version 2.9.10, 01 Jul 1992 by Raymond, Eric S.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023