# silo

/ˈsaɪɫoʊ/ (US) · /sˈaɪləʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/silo
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a tall tower used for storing grain on a farm. In business, it also describes a system or department that works alone and does not share information with others.

For teachers: a tall, cylindrical structure used for bulk storage of grain or fermented animal feed. In organizational contexts, refers to a functional unit or department that operates in isolation from others, often hindering communication.

## Examples

- The farm has a large silver silo for storing corn.
- The marketing team is stuck in a silo and rarely talks to the product developers.
- Breaking down corporate silos is essential for fostering innovation, as it allows diverse teams to share data and insights that would otherwise remain trapped within departmental boundaries.

## Usage notes

- Often used metaphorically in business and computing to describe isolated systems or teams.

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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.