hotspot
HOT-spot
/ˈhɑtspɑt/
A physical location or device feature that provides wireless internet access to nearby computing devices.
Can refer to a public Wi-Fi location (e.g., in a café) or a mobile phone feature sharing cellular data.
The story behind the word. Originally coined in geology to describe volcanic zones of high geothermal activity, 'hotspot' later referred to lively nightclubs or geopolitical conflict zones. In 1993, tech pioneer Brett Stewart used it to designate public places providing wireless local area network access.
Word relationships
- access point: Access point is the technical term for networking hardware, whereas hotspot refers to the accessible location or consumer feature.
Commonly confused with
- router: A router is a stationary dedicated networking box; a hotspot is any active Wi-Fi broad-casting location or mobile tethering feature.
Collocations
- mobile hotspot
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- personal hotspot
- connect to a hotspot
Example sentences
- "When the home internet failed, she activated her mobile hotspot to join the videoconference." Remote Work
- "The airport offers a free Wi-Fi hotspot for waiting passengers." Travel
Memory hook
A HOT SPOT is a warm zone where wireless signal is active and ready to use. Portable or localized wireless internet station.
When not to use
Avoid using as a synonym for fixed wired internet infrastructure.
Fun facts
- The term 'Wi-Fi hotspot' was first proposed at a NetWorld+Interop conference in Dallas in 1993.
Related words
Explore more words
cellular, Connectivity, multiplayer, Server, drive-thru, refreshments
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