netiquette

American  

[net-i-kit, ‑-ket] / ˈnɛt ɪ kɪt, ‑ˌkɛt /

noun

1. the rules of etiquette that apply when communicating over computer networks, especially the internet.

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netiquette British  

/ ˈnɛtɪˌkɛt /

noun

1. the informal code of behaviour on the internet

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Etymology

Origin of netiquette

First recorded in 1980–85; blend of network and etiquette

Explanation

The rules for being polite while you're online are known as netiquette. It's bad netiquette to type in all capital letters, because it seems like you're shouting! The portmanteau netiquette was coined in the late 1980s or early 1990s from internet and etiquette. While people differ on the exact details, most internet users agree that there are certain standards for acceptable online behavior and style. Hostile language, spreading rumors or private information, and dominating forum discussions are all considered poor netiquette. On the other hand, treating people with respect, avoiding spam, and communicating clearly are examples of excellent netiquette.

Example Sentences

Before taking an online class for the first time, it's wise to familiarize yourself with Internet etiquette, or "netiquette."

From US News • Jul. 22, 2016

The netiquette flap reminds me of the sporadic eruption, among British commentators, of objections to "Americanisms" creeping into the language.

From The Guardian • Mar. 14, 2013

Brad Templeton, an Internet old-timer who used to publish a satirical guide to Internet "netiquette" called Emily PostNews, now distributes Clarinet news service, an electronic newspaper that brings wire-service stories to 65,000 Internet subscribers.

From Time Magazine Archive

Note that the standard netiquette guidelines discourage this practice as a waste of bandwidth, since netters are quite unlikely to casually use postal addresses.

From The Jargon File, Version 4.2.2, 20 Aug 2000 by Steele, Guy L.

Bottom feeders are often the classic problem user, known for unleashing spam, flamage, and other breaches of netiquette.

From The Jargon File, Version 4.2.2, 20 Aug 2000 by Steele, Guy L.