Cyber mail

ANNA VARKI

A decade ago the only word in the dictionary with the prefix "cyber" was cybernetics which meant, the study of communication and control mechanisms in machines and living creatures. The Oxford Dictionary has come out with 20 volumes, as more and more words are being used.

The first word coined with "cyber" is (perhaps) cyberspace. It was the science fiction writer William Gibson who invented it . He describes it as a computer generated landscape you enter.

In course of time space acquired different names where computer data is stored. Words like cyberphobia, cyber cafe and so on. If you find a mate on a website you can have cyberwedding but for practical purposes it is better to have a registered one also. The concept of "cyberfunerals" is also coming up - the times have changed.

The Letter "E" has assumed much importance - used as a prefix to describe anything involving electronics like Email, E-commerce and the like.

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Features
Previous : Children can help