interface
UK: ˈɪntəfeɪs | US: ˈɪntərfeɪs
n. a point where two systems, subjects, or organizations meet and interact
n. (computing) a shared boundary across which information is exchanged
vt. to connect or interact with another system or component
The word "interface" combines the Latin-derived prefix "inter-" (meaning "between") and the noun "face" (from Latin "facies," meaning "surface" or "appearance"). Originally used in the 19th century to describe physical boundaries (e.g., between liquids), it later evolved in computing (mid-20th century) to denote the point of interaction between systems or components. The logic reflects a metaphorical extension of "face" as a meeting surface.
The new software provides a user-friendly interface.
Scientists studied the interface between the two chemical layers.
The manager acts as an interface between the team and clients.
This device can interface with multiple operating systems.
Cultural interfaces often lead to creative collaborations.