router
gb/ɹˈaʊtɚ/ us/ɹˈaʊtɚ/
B1
English
~ 3900
Senses
0 senses
Noun
technical
B1
entity
1
Device for directing network traffic
A machine that sends information between computers or networks so they can talk to each other.
Usage pattern:
[someone] installs/uses/configures a router
Common mistake:
Learners often confuse 'router' with 'modem'. A modem connects to the internet, while a router directs data between devices or networks.
Synonyms
gateway (Often used in networking to mean a device that connects different networks, though it may have broader functions than a router.)
|
switch (A related network device, but it connects devices within the same network rather than routing between networks.)
Antonyms
modem (Not a direct opposite, but a different device that connects to the internet; learners often confuse the two.)
Collocations
wireless router
|install a router
|configure a router
|router settings
|router password
Themes
technology
|computing
|internet
|communication
|business
Examples
- I reset the router to fix the internet connection.
- The company upgraded its routers to handle more traffic.
- Make sure your router is placed in the center of your home for better coverage.
- The IT team configured the router for secure access.
- Without a working router, none of the computers can go online.
Learner examples
- The router is next to my desk.
- We use a router for the internet.
- I bought a new router yesterday.
- The router is not working.
- Our router is very fast.
Noun
technical
B2
entity
2
Tool for hollowing or shaping material
A machine used to cut shapes or make holes in wood or other hard materials.
Usage pattern:
[someone] uses a router to [do something]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse this meaning with the networking device; context about woodworking or tools makes it clear.
Synonyms
trimmer (A smaller, lighter tool used for similar cutting or shaping tasks, often on edges.)
Collocations
wood router
|handheld router
|router bit
|use a router
|router table
Themes
tools
|construction
|crafts
|work
|technology
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- He used a router to carve a decorative edge on the table.
- The carpenter adjusted the router bit before starting work.
- This type of router can cut precise grooves into the wood.
- Always wear safety goggles when operating a router.
- The workshop has both manual and electric routers.
Learner examples
- I use a router to cut wood.
- He has a big router in his shop.
- This router makes a round edge.
- We put the wood under the router.
- The router cuts very fast.
Grammar
Dictionary form
router
IPA
GB/ɹˈaʊtɚ/
US/ɹˈaʊtɚ/
Syllables & stress
router (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (router)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: router
- Plural: routers
Word family
Forms
routers
noun
Core family
route
noun A2
routing
noun
Related words
reroute
verb
Advanced or less common
routable
adjective
Expressions
router settings
1/ɹˈaʊtɚ sˈɛtɪŋz/
fixed phrase
technical
Configuration options for a router
The controls you can change on your router to make it work how you want.
Examples
- You can change your password in the router settings.
- The technician updated the security in the router settings.
wireless router
1/wˈaɪɚləs ɹˈaʊtɚ/
fixed phrase
technical
Router that works without cables
A machine that sends internet data without using wires.
Examples
- We bought a new wireless router for faster internet.
- Place the wireless router in the center of your home for better coverage.