plug-in
|plug/in|
/ˈplʌɡˌɪn/
add-on component
Etymology
'plug-in' originates from the English words 'plug' and 'in', where 'plug' meant 'to connect' and 'in' indicated 'inside or within'.
'plug-in' evolved from the concept of physically plugging a device into an electrical outlet to the modern digital context of adding software components.
Initially, it meant 'a device connected to an outlet', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a software component that adds functionality'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a software component that adds a specific feature to an existing computer program.
The new plug-in allows the software to process images faster.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a device that is connected to an electrical outlet to perform a specific function.
The plug-in air freshener keeps the room smelling fresh.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/18 04:14