HYPERLINKING Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperlinking refers to the act of creating a connection between two pieces of digital content or webpages by embedding or associating one with the other through a hyperlink. A hyperlink is a clickable element, usually displayed as a word, phrase, or image, that allows users to navigate from one webpage or section of content to another on the internet. By utilizing hyperlinking, users can easily access additional information or related resources that are relevant to the current content they are viewing.
Hyperlinks are typically implemented using HTML, the standard markup language for webpages, where the destination URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is specified. When a user clicks on a hyperlink, their web browser fetches and displays the content located at the linked URL. This content can be found on the same website or an entirely different one.
Hyperlinking plays a crucial role in the structure and navigation of the internet. It enables seamless connectivity between various webpages and facilitates browsing and information retrieval. Hyperlinks enable users to move between different websites, explore related resources, follow citations or references, access external sources, and delve deeper into specific topics or subjects.
In addition to basic navigation, hyperlinking has been extensively used in various applications, including electronic documents, online catalogs, educational materials, and interactive websites, to provide a dynamic and interconnected web experience. The widespread use of hyperlinks has significantly contributed to the growth, accessibility, and ease of use of the internet, allowing users to traverse vast amounts of information with a simple click.
Etymology of HYPERLINKING
The word "hyperlinking" is derived from the combination of two terms: "hyper" and "linking".
"Hyper-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "hupér", meaning "over" or "beyond". It is often used in computer-related vocabulary to denote an enhanced or advanced state of something. For instance, in the word "hypertext", "hyper-" signifies a more sophisticated form of text that contains links to other documents or web pages.
"Linking" is a gerund form of the verb "link". The word "link" originates from the Old English word "hlencan", which means "to join or connect". In the context of computers and the internet, "link" refers to a connection or pathway between different documents or web pages.
