router

¹

[ rou-ter ]

noun

1. any of various tools or machines for routing, hollowing out, or furrowing.
2. Also called router plane. Carpentry. a plane for cutting interior angles, as at the bottom of a groove.
3. a machine or tool for cutting into or below a main surface, as of a die or engraving plate.

verb (used with object)

1. to cut with a router.

router

²

[ roo-ter, rou- ]

noun

1. a person or thing that routes.
2. a piece of hardware or software having a specific IP address and connected to network nodes for the transfer of data between computers.

router

¹

/ ˈruːtə /

noun

1. computing a device that allows packets of data to be moved efficiently between two points on a network

router

²

/ ˈraʊtə /

noun

1. any of various tools or machines for hollowing out, cutting grooves, etc

router

/ rou′tər /

1. A device in a network that handles message transfers between computers. A router receives information and forwards it based on what the router determines to be the most efficient route at the time of transfer.

Word History and Origins

Origin of router¹

First recorded in 1840–50; rout ² + -er ¹

Origin of router²

First recorded in 1900–05; route + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The signals are received on the ground by pizza-box-size terminal dishes, which then distribute the connection like a Wi-Fi router to laptops, phones and other devices nearby.

From New York Times

This meant it was a cheap ticket but still close enough to the router for her to steal the free Wi-Fi that came with expensive fares.

From Literature

As well as basic broadband routers, that can include toys that are linked to the web, or home appliances like radiators, ovens and fridges that can be controlled remotely.

From BBC

They enable ultrafast charging and discharging, providing energy storage and power for devices ranging from smartphones, laptops and routers to medical devices, automotive electronics and industrial equipment.

From Science Daily

Once inside, they would try to disrupt any in-home security cameras and Wi-Fi routers and look for jewelry, purses and cash, court papers say.

From Seattle Times