English Reference

Word

web

Phoneticsweb

US/ˈwɛb/

UK/wˈɛb/

Definitions

01spider's home

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. the thin, sticky net that a spider makes to catch insects.

n. a silken structure secreted by a spider to trap prey or house eggs.

“A large spider built a web across the corner of the garden shed.”

“The morning dew clung to the intricate geometry of the web, making the spider's work visible against the dark hedge.”

Synonyms

spiderwebcobweb

02a complex network

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a complicated set of connections between people, ideas, or things.

n. an intricate or complex network of interconnected elements, often used metaphorically for social or criminal systems.

“The police discovered a complex web of lies during the investigation.”

“The diplomat navigated a delicate web of international alliances to ensure the treaty was signed by all parties.”

03animal anatomy

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Science Technical

n. the skin that connects the toes of some animals, like ducks or frogs, to help them swim.

n. a fold of tissue connecting the digits of an animal, typically to facilitate swimming.

“The duck has a web between its toes that helps it push through the water.”

“Evolutionary biologists study the development of the interdigital web in various avian species to understand the transition from land to water.”

Synonyms

04structural engineering

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical

n. the middle part of a metal beam that connects the top and bottom edges.

n. the vertical plate or section connecting the flanges of a structural member, such as an I-beam or a rail.

“The engineer checked the steel web for any signs of bending or rust.”

“The thickness of the web was increased to prevent buckling under the significant vertical loads imposed by the new bridge deck.”

05to cover or entangle

C1 · Advanced Literary

v. to cover something with a net or to trap someone in a difficult situation.

v. to cover with or as if with a web; to ensnare or entangle in a complex situation.

“The old trees were webbed with thick vines and moss.”

“The protagonist found himself webbed in a conspiracy that reached the highest levels of the government.”

Synonyms

entangleensnaremesh

Antonyms

untanglerelease

Usage

When referring to the World Wide Web, it is frequently capitalized and preceded by the definite article 'the'.

Pitfall

I found it in the Web

I found it on the Web

The preposition 'on' is used for digital platforms and websites, whereas 'in' is used for physical containers or print media.

Etymology

Ellipsis of World Wide Web.

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

Word family

Related words

Domains

ArchitectureMedicineTelevision

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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