# interface

/ˈɪnɝˌfeɪs/ (US) · /ˈɪntəfˌeɪs/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. user and machine

noun · CEFR B2

the way a person uses a computer or machine, such as the buttons or the screen you see.

For teachers: the means by which a user interacts with a computer system or software, typically involving a graphical or physical layout.

- The new app has a very simple interface that is easy for beginners to use.
- The design team focused on creating an intuitive user interface to reduce the learning curve for the new enterprise software.

### 2. software connection

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the point where two different computer systems or programs connect and share information.

For teachers: a shared boundary across which two separate software components or hardware systems exchange information.

- The software needs a special interface to talk to the printer.
- The API provides a standardised interface that allows third-party developers to integrate their tools with our core database.

### 3. physical boundary

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the surface or area where two different substances meet, like oil and water.

For teachers: a surface forming a common boundary between two different substances or phases of matter.

- Scientists studied how the chemicals reacted at the interface between the liquid and the gas.
- Surface tension is a result of the unique molecular forces acting at the interface of the two fluids.

### 4. to connect or communicate

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to connect two things together, or for two groups of people to work together and share information.

For teachers: to interact or communicate with another person, group, or system; often used in business to describe inter-departmental cooperation.

- Our sales team needs to interface with the marketing department more often.
- The project manager's primary role is to interface with the client to ensure all technical requirements are being met.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'with'.

## Examples

- The new software has a very simple user interface.
- The manager acts as the interface between the design team and the clients to ensure clear communication.
- Successful product design requires a seamless interface between aesthetic appeal and functional utility, ensuring that the user experience remains intuitive despite the underlying technical complexity.

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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.