English Reference
noun · verb

tower

n. · v.
US /ˈtaʊɝ/ tow·er

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Computing

    n.a tall, vertical case that holds the main parts of a desktop computer.

    n.a vertical computer case designed to stand on the floor or a desk, distinct from horizontal desktop models.

    Simple

    He tucked the computer tower under his desk to save space.

    In context

    The technician opened the tower to install additional RAM and a more powerful cooling fan for the server.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.a specific department or area of a business that is managed separately.

    n.a distinct functional silo or service area within an IT or business outsourcing model, often managed by a specific provider.

    Simple

    The company divided its IT services into a network tower and a security tower.

    In context

    Under the new multi-sourcing strategy, the infrastructure tower was awarded to a specialist vendor while the service desk remained in-house.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a person or a vehicle that pulls another vehicle behind it.

    n.an agent, vehicle, or vessel that performs the act of towing another object.

    Simple

    The tower arrived with a large truck to move the broken car.

    In context

    The harbour tower coordinated the movement of several barges, ensuring they cleared the narrow channel before the tide turned.

    tughauler
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to be much taller than the people or things around you.

    v.to rise to a conspicuous height; to be significantly taller than surrounding objects or individuals.

    Simple

    The new office building will tower over the small houses in the street.

    In context

    The ancient redwoods tower over the forest floor, creating a dense canopy that blocks out most of the direct sunlight.

    Usage

    usually followed by 'over' or 'above'

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated