bandwidth

UK: ˈbændwɪdθ | US: ˈbændwɪdθ

Definition

  1. n. the range of frequencies within a given band, especially for transmitting signals

  2. n. (computing) the data transfer capacity of a network connection

  3. n. (figurative) the mental or emotional capacity to handle tasks or information

Structure
band <range or strip>width <measure of breadth>
Etymology

The word "bandwidth" combines "band" (from Old Norse band, meaning a strip or range) and "width" (from Old English wīdþu, meaning breadth). Originally used in radio engineering to describe frequency ranges, it later expanded to computing (measuring data transfer rates) and colloquially to describe cognitive or emotional capacity. The logic mirrors physical "width" applied to abstract "bands" of resources.

Examples

  1. The internet connection has a bandwidth of 100 Mbps.

  2. Older cables cannot support high bandwidth demands.

  3. Streaming video requires significant bandwidth.

  4. She lacks the bandwidth to take on another project.

  5. The radio station operates within a limited bandwidth.