multiplex

Word family

• multiplexing
  nounC1
• multiplexed
  adjectiveC1
• multiplexer
  nounC1
• demultiplex
  verbC2

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

'Multiplex' and 'cineplex' are near-synonyms for a multi-screen cinema, but they have different regional and brand associations. 'Multiplex' is the standard term in British and Australian English — you will see it on cinema chains' signage and in everyday conversation. 'Cineplex' was originally a brand name of a Canadian cinema chain and is still more common in North America, though it has partially genericised. 'Cinema complex' or 'movie theater complex' are descriptive alternatives that sound slightly more formal or administrative. In everyday American speech, simply 'movie theater' often refers to a multiplex by default, since most modern theatres have multiple screens. When precision is needed — for example, comparing an old single-screen venue with a modern one — 'multiplex' is the clearest term.

Common collocations

Etymology

From Latin 'multiplex', meaning 'having many folds' or 'manifold', a combination of 'multi-' (many) and '-plex' (fold, plait). The word entered English in the 16th century as an adjective meaning 'manifold' or 'multiple'. The telecommunications sense developed in the early 20th century with the invention of systems that could send multiple signals over a single wire. The cinema sense appeared in the 1960s, when multi-screen theatre complexes began replacing traditional single-screen venues.