Origin: Latin prefix inter-
Interface has 6 different meanings across 1 category:
(chemistry) a surface forming a common boundary between two things (two objects or liquids or chemical phases)
"The researchers adjusted the temperature to stabilize the interface where the oil and water layers met."
(computer science) a program that controls a display for the user (usually on a computer monitor) and that allows the user to interact with the system
"The new software interface lets me drag and drop files directly onto my screen without opening any menus."
the overlap where two theories or phenomena affect each other or have links with each other
"the interface between chemistry and biology"
(computer science) computer circuit consisting of the hardware and associated circuitry that links one device with another (especially a computer and a hard disk drive or other peripherals)
"The technician replaced the faulty interface to restore communication between the server and its external storage array."
The point of interconnection or contact between entities.
"The new software update improved how the mobile app interfaces with our existing database, making data retrieval much faster."
In plain English: An interface is a way for two different things to connect and talk to each other.
"The computer interface is easy to use, so anyone can figure out how to start the program."
Usage: Use "interface" to describe the specific boundary where two systems, people, or objects meet and interact, such as a screen connecting a user to software. Avoid using it as a verb unless you are specifically referring to the act of making these different elements connect.
To construct an interface for.
"The senior developer will interface the new payment gateway to ensure secure transactions for all users."
In plain English: To interface means to connect two different systems so they can work together.
"You can interface your new computer with the printer to start printing immediately."
Usage: When used as a verb in everyday contexts, interface means to communicate or interact with someone or something, such as when a person interfaces with a customer service system. Do not use it to mean "constructing an interface," which requires the more specific phrasing of "designing" or "building" an interface.
The word interface comes from Latin roots meaning "between" and "face," originally describing the surface where two things meet. It entered English to refer specifically to that boundary or connecting point between systems or people.