What does "server" mean?
A program that provides services to other programs or devices, either in the same computer or over a computer network.
Server
/ˈsɜːvə/ name, noun
name, noun ·Uncommon ·College level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: A program that provides services to other programs or devices, either in the same computer or over a computer network.
- Grammar: server is listed as name, noun.
- Nearest alternatives: host, waiter, acolyte, attendant.
- Useful contrasts: browser, busboys, busser.
- Usage evidence: Is something going on with your server?
How to use "server"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "server" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "server" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "server" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "server" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
- Use synonyms when you need a softer, stronger, simpler, or more specific word.
- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "server" is acting as name, noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "host" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
Review note: Definition pages are checked for source coverage, sentence evidence, synonym support, and editorial insight before they are treated as approval-ready pages. If the evidence is too thin, the page remains available to users but is kept out of the approval-facing indexed inventory.
Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "server", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A program that provides services to other programs or devices, either in the same computer or over a computer network.
- 2 utensil used in serving food or drink wordnet
- 3 A computer dedicated to running such programs.
"Now we are liberal with our innermost secrets, spraying them into the public ether with a generosity our forebears could not have imagined. Where we once sent love letters in a sealed envelope, or stuck photographs of our children in a family album, now such private material is despatched to servers and clouds operated by people we don't know and will never meet."
- 4 (computer science) a computer that provides client stations with access to files and printers as shared resources to a computer network wordnet
- 5 A community space where only those who joined it can communicate in channels.
"Please take a look at my log its completely going haywire… My server is changing the admin name and doesn’t store any created channels."
Show 7 more definitions
- 6 (court games) the player who serves to start a point wordnet
- 7 One who serves.; A waitress or waiter.
- 8 a person whose occupation is to serve at table (as in a restaurant) wordnet
- 9 One who serves.; The player who serves the ball.
- 10 One who serves.; A priest's attendant at the celebration of the Eucharist.
- 11 A tray for dishes.
- 12 A spoon for serving food.
Proper Noun
- 1 A surname originating as an occupation.
Example
"Is something going on with your server?"
Common questions
What is a synonym for "server"?
Common synonyms include: host, waiter, acolyte, attendant, buffet, carvers.
How do you use "server" in a sentence?
Is something going on with your server?
How do you pronounce "server"?
Pronounced /ˈsɜːvə/.
Etymology
Etymology 1
From Middle English servere, equivalent to serve + -er.
Etymology 2
Occupational surname from server.