interconnection

UK: ˌɪntəkəˈnɛkʃən | US: ˌɪntərkəˈnɛkʃən

Definition

  1. n. the state or process of being connected reciprocally

  2. n. a system of interconnected elements or networks

Structure
inter <between>connect <join>ion <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "interconnection" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Inter-" (from Latin inter, meaning "between" or "among") introduces the idea of mutual or reciprocal action.
  2. "Connect" (from Latin connectere, "to bind together") retains its core meaning of joining or linking.
  3. "-ion" (a noun-forming suffix from Latin -io) turns the verb into a noun, representing the result or state of the action.
    The term emerged in the 19th century, reflecting technological and systemic linkages (e.g., railways, telegraphs). Its evolution mirrors societal shifts toward networked structures.
Examples

  1. The interconnection of global markets makes economies highly interdependent.

  2. Engineers designed the system to ensure seamless interconnection between devices.

  3. The report highlights the interconnection between climate change and biodiversity loss.

  4. Faulty interconnection in the circuit caused the power outage.

  5. Modern infrastructure relies on the interconnection of digital platforms.