wireless access point

noun

: access point

Two essential components are needed to set up a Wi-Fi network. One is a wireless access point that serves as a hub for the network. It connects to the Internet via cable, DSL or even a dial-up modem and serves as a traffic cop for all the other devices on your network, letting them share the Internet connection and talk to one another.

—Steve Morgenstern, Cigar Aficionado, July/August 2002

Word History

First Known Use

1992, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!