terminaal

Termin aal is the Dutch term for terminal, used across several domains to denote an end point, an interface, or a final stage. Etymologically, it derives from Latin terminus and entered Dutch with senses related to boundaries, ends, and destinations. The term is common in technical and everyday language to describe endpoints of systems, routes, or processes.

In computing, a terminal refers to a device or software that provides a text-based interface to a computer. Historically, hardware terminals included teletype devices and CRT terminals; today, terminal emulators such as xterm, GNOME Terminal, and Windows Console run within graphical environments and connect to shells or remote systems, enabling command-line interaction and scripting.

In transportation and logistics, a terminal (in Dutch usage) is a facility where passengers or goods are transferred between routes or modes. Examples include bus terminals, railway terminals, seaport terminals, and airport terminals. Such spaces typically include platforms, gates, ticketing, baggage handling, and other services, functioning as hubs within a network.

In biology and medicine, the term describes the end position of a structure, such as terminal buds or terminal segments, or the final stage of a disease. In medical contexts, terms like terminal illness denote conditions with limited life expectancy, often guiding palliative care and end-of-life planning.

See also Terminal (disambiguation).