# distributed system

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/distributed-system
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a group of computers that work together to complete a task but appear to the user as a single computer. The computers are in different locations and talk to each other over a network.

For teachers: a collection of independent computers that appears to its users as a single coherent system. Components located on networked computers communicate and coordinate their actions by passing messages to achieve a common goal.

## Examples

- The website runs on a distributed system to handle millions of visitors.
- Modern cloud computing relies on a distributed system to ensure that if one server fails, the others can continue the work.
- Designing a distributed system requires careful management of data consistency and network latency, as individual nodes may fail or communicate at different speeds.

## Usage notes

- Often used in technical or computer science contexts; typically takes a singular verb when referring to the system as a whole.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.