extranet
UK[ˈekstrənet]US[ˈekstrənet]
n
A private computer network that allows controlled access to specific external users, such as business partners or customers, using internet technology.
Morpheme Breakdown
extra
net
extra
outside, beyond
net
network
Etymology
The term is a modern English compound, formed in the late 20th century within the context of computer networking. It combines the Latin-derived prefix "extra-," meaning "outside" or "beyond," with the clipped form "net," from "network." The formation follows a logical and transparent pattern, directly contrasting with "intranet" (a network within an organization). Literally, it means "an external network," which precisely describes its function as a private network extending beyond a single organization's internal boundaries to authorized outsiders via the public internet infrastructure.
Analysis
Structure: extra (outside, beyond) + net (network)
- extra: From Latin extra meaning "outside of, beyond." Functions as a prefix indicating externality.
- net: A clipping of the English word "network." Functions as the core noun element.
Examples
The company set up an extranet to share project updates securely with its contractors.
Suppliers can access inventory levels and submit invoices through the dedicated extranet.
Extranets facilitate collaboration between different organizations while maintaining data security.