# networking

/ˈnɛtˌwɝkɪŋ/ (US) · /nˈɛtwɜːkɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/networking
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. professional socializing

noun · CEFR B2

the process of meeting and talking to people who may be useful to your work or career.

For teachers: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business opportunities. Uncountable in this sense.

- I spent the evening networking with other designers at the conference.
- Effective networking requires more than just exchanging business cards; it involves building genuine rapport and finding ways to offer value to new contacts.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'with' when describing the act of connecting with others.

### 2. computer systems

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the way computers and other devices are connected so they can share information.

For teachers: the design, implementation, and management of interconnected computer systems and communication protocols.

- The company is looking for an expert in wireless networking.
- The upgrade to the office networking infrastructure significantly reduced latency and improved the speed of data transfers between departments.

Usage: Frequently appears as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'networking equipment' or 'networking protocols'.

## Examples

- I spent the evening networking with other local business owners.
- Attending industry conferences is a great way to do some networking and find potential new clients.
- While technical skills are essential for entry-level roles, successful long-term career progression often depends on the strength of one's professional networking and the ability to leverage those connections.

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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.