English Reference
noun · adjective

streaming

n. · adj.
US /ˈstɹimɪŋ/ UK /stɹˈiːmɪŋ/ stream·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Computing

    n.watching video or listening to music directly from the internet without saving a file first.

    n.the continuous transmission of audio or video files from a server to a client, allowing for immediate playback without local storage.

    Simple

    Streaming has become more popular than buying physical DVDs or CDs.

    In context

    The rise of high-speed internet has made high-definition streaming the primary method for consuming television and film globally.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun like 'service' or 'platform'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    n.putting students into different classes based on their academic ability.

    n.the practice of assigning students to different classes or groups based on their perceived academic ability or potential.

    Simple

    The school uses streaming for maths and science to help students learn at their own pace.

    In context

    Educational researchers continue to debate whether streaming benefits high achievers or unfairly disadvantages those placed in lower-tier groups.

    Teacher's tip

    In American English, this practice is more commonly referred to as 'tracking'.

    mixed ability
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the continuous movement of a liquid or a crowd of people.

    n.the act of moving in a steady, continuous flow, resembling a physical stream.

    Simple

    The streaming of the water down the mountain was a beautiful sight.

    In context

    The constant streaming of commuters through the station gates created a chaotic atmosphere during the morning rush hour.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Literary

    adj.moving or flowing out in a continuous way.

    adj.characterised by a continuous flow or succession; often used to describe eyes or wounds.

    Simple

    She walked in from the rain with streaming hair and a wet coat.

    In context

    He suffered from a streaming cold that left him unable to focus on the lecture.

Usage streaming service · streaming platform · streaming services


Etymology 1

From Middle English stremyng, stremynge, stremande, equivalent to stream + -ing.

Etymology 2

From Middle English stremynge, equivalent to stream + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English stremyng
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated