web
- 01 A2 Elementary
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.
Simple“A large spider built a web across the corner of the garden shed.”
In context“The morning dew clung to the intricate geometry of the web, making the spider's work visible against the dark hedge.”
Synonymsspiderwebcobweb - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
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.
Simple“The police discovered a complex web of lies during the investigation.”
In context“The diplomat navigated a delicate web of international alliances to ensure the treaty was signed by all parties.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
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.
Simple“The duck has a web between its toes that helps it push through the water.”
In context“Evolutionary biologists study the development of the interdigital web in various avian species to understand the transition from land to water.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
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.
Simple“The engineer checked the steel web for any signs of bending or rust.”
In context“The thickness of the web was increased to prevent buckling under the significant vertical loads imposed by the new bridge deck.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
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.
Simple“The old trees were webbed with thick vines and moss.”
In context“The protagonist found himself webbed in a conspiracy that reached the highest levels of the government.”
Ellipsis of World Wide Web.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.