Nets

Nets is a term with several related meanings across everyday language and specialized fields. It most commonly denotes a flexible mesh used to catch, hold, or filter items, but it also appears in discussions of networks, teams, and financial figures in various fields.

A net is typically made of interlaced fibers such as nylon, polyethylene, or cotton, knotted into a grid. Nets are used to fish, trap, or enclose items. Common varieties include fishing nets (gillnets, seine nets, trawl nets), landing nets, and insect nets; mesh size, strength, and material influence performance and bycatch.

In sports and everyday life, nets serve as barriers or markers. Goal nets in soccer and hockey mark scores, while basketball nets hang from rims and function decoratively as well as practically. Nets also protect crops and orchards from birds and other pests.

In technology, neural nets or neural networks are computational models that imitate simplified brain processing. They consist of interconnected units (neurons) and are trained to recognize patterns, classify data, translate language, or control systems.

In finance, net denotes amounts remaining after deductions such as taxes or costs. Net income, net profit, and net worth are common terms; to net means to obtain the result after subtracting expenses from gross amounts.

The Brooklyn Nets are a professional basketball team in the NBA. Originating as the New Jersey Nets in 1967, the franchise relocated to Brooklyn in 2012 and retained the Nets name.