Meaning & Definition of word "Infrastructure"

Infrastructure

/ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌk.tʃər/

noun:

  • 1. The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
    • Example: The country's infrastructure, including roads and bridges, is in desperate need of repair.
  • 2. The underlying foundation or basic framework, especially of a system or organization.
    • Example: The infrastructure of the network is designed to support high-speed data transmission.
  • 3. The resources and services that an economy or society relies on.
    • Example: Investment in infrastructure can boost economic growth and improve quality of life.

Etymology

From French 'infrastructure', from 'infra-' meaning 'below' + 'structure'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

infrastructure development:

The process of building and improving infrastructure.

critical infrastructure:

Essential systems that support the functioning of a society.

infrastructure investment:

Funds allocated to improve infrastructure.

Related Words

construction:

The building of structures.

engineering:

The application of science and mathematics to develop solutions.

urban planning:

The planning and design of urban spaces.

Slang Meanings of infrastructure

Meaning: Big structures that hold everything up.

Example Sentence: Without good infrastructure, we're in deep trouble!

Meaning: The behind-the-scenes stuff that makes everything work.

Example Sentence: These upgrades are key infrastructure to keep the internet running smoothly.