peer-to-peer

[ peer-tuh-peer ]

adjective

1. involving direct contact or exchange between individuals of a similar rank or position; person-to-person: : P2P

   Studies have shown that peer-to-peer tutoring increases student performance across a range of subjects.

2. describing a computer network in which each node has the capacity to act as a server for all other nodes, allowing the exchange of information without a centralized server. : P2P

peer-to-peer

adjective

1. (of a computer network) designed so that computers can send information directly to one another without passing through a centralized server P2P

Word History and Origins

Origin of peer-to-peer¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

DeVille compared it with the early 2000s music industry, when Napster and other peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms wrecked traditional models of selling music.

From Slate

“But when you’re a peer-to-peer vote, it’s also based on relationships. And Thune has done a really good job building relationships, and so has Cornyn. And that’s what it really comes down to: relationships.”

From Slate

They explained how a peer-to-peer digital cash system could work to enable people to send virtual coins over the internet, just as easily as sending an email.

From BBC

This new economy is fueled by cutting out traditional middlemen, banks, and allowing transparent, secure, and borderless peer-to-peer payments.

From Salon

Recalling those efforts two decades ago, Madden said: “If you drive a truck and drink Budweiser, you’re one of our voters. If you drive a Grand Cherokee and drink Heineken, you may be a swing voters. Based on consumer habits, we know where to target you with some of our messaging, whether it’s peer-to-peer communication or through Field & Stream magazine.”

From Los Angeles Times