Have you ever paused while writing and wondered: should I write web site or website? You’re not alone.
This small spelling difference confuses writers, bloggers, students, and even professionals every day.
People search for “web site or website” because both forms appear online, in articles, and in official documents—sometimes even on the same page.
That inconsistency creates doubt about which spelling is correct, modern, and professional.
The confusion comes from language evolution. As technology grows, words often change form. What starts as two separate words may later combine into one.
This has happened with many tech terms, and web site vs website is a perfect example. Search engines, style guides, and major brands don’t always explain why one spelling is preferred, which leaves users guessing.
This article solves that confusion clearly and quickly. You’ll get a straight answer, learn the history behind both spellings, see how British and American English treat the word, and find out which version you should use based on your audience.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which spelling to choose—and why.
Quick Answer
Website (one word) is the correct and most widely accepted spelling today.
Web site (two words) is considered outdated and is rarely used in modern writing.
Examples:
- ✅ I launched a new website for my business.
- ❌ I launched a new web site for my business. (old-fashioned)
In professional, academic, SEO, and digital content, website is the standard choice.
The Origin of Web Site or Website
The term began in the early 1990s when the internet was new. Originally, web and site were written as two separate words—web site—to describe a “site on the World Wide Web.”
Over time, as the internet became part of everyday life, the term followed a common language pattern:
- Two words → hyphenated form → one word
Just like:
- e-mail → email
- on line → online
By the early 2000s, major dictionaries, tech companies, and style guides began adopting website as a single word. The spelling difference exists because language evolves faster in technology than in traditional publishing.
British English vs American English Spelling
Unlike many spelling debates, web site vs website is not a strong UK vs US difference.
Both British English and American English now prefer website.
Comparison Table
| English Variant | Preferred Spelling | Notes |
| American English | website | Standard in US media and tech |
| British English | website | Used by UK publishers |
| Canadian English | website | Follows modern standard |
| Australian English | website | Common in digital content |
| Old/Traditional Use | web site | Rare and outdated |
There is no modern rule that supports web site over website in either variant.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Your audience matters—but in this case, the answer is simple.
- US audience: Use website
- UK or Commonwealth audience: Use website
- Global or SEO content: Always use website
- Academic or professional writing: Use website
Using web site may make your writing look outdated or unpolished. For clarity, consistency, and professionalism, website is the safest and smartest choice.
Common Mistakes with Web Site or Website
Here are frequent errors people make:
- ❌ Mixing both spellings in one article
✅ Pick website and stay consistent - ❌ Using web-site with a hyphen
✅ The hyphen is no longer standard - ❌ Thinking British English prefers web site
✅ British English also prefers website - ❌ Using web site in SEO content
✅ Search engines favor website
Web Site or Website in Everyday Examples
Emails
- Please visit our website for more details.
News
- The company updated its website after the announcement.
Social Media
- Link in bio to our website!
Formal Writing
- The data is published on the organization’s official website.
In all contexts, website fits naturally and looks modern.
Web Site or Website – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search behavior shows a clear winner.
- Website is searched far more often worldwide.
- Web site shows declining interest year after year.
- English-speaking countries strongly favor website.
- SEO tools and style guides recommend website for digital content.
This trend confirms that website is the dominant and future-proof spelling.
Comparison Table: Web Site vs Website
| Feature | Web Site | Website |
| Word form | Two words | One word |
| Modern usage | Rare | Very common |
| SEO friendly | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Professional tone | Outdated | Modern |
| Dictionary support | Limited | Strong |
FAQs
1. Is “web site” wrong?
It’s not wrong, but it’s outdated and rarely used today.
2. Do dictionaries accept “website”?
Yes. Most modern dictionaries list website as the standard form.
3. Is “website” American English only?
No. British and global English also use website.
4. Which spelling is better for SEO?
Website performs better in search results.
5. Should I use “web site” in academic writing?
No. Academic and professional writing prefer website.
6. Can I mix both spellings?
No. Consistency matters—use website only.
7. Will “web site” disappear completely?
Most likely, yes. Language trends favor website.
Conclusion
The debate between web site or website is largely settled in modern English. While web site played an important role in the early days of the internet, it no longer reflects current usage.
Today, website is the clear standard across American, British, and global English. It is shorter, cleaner, and widely accepted by dictionaries, style guides, search engines, and professional writers.
If your goal is clarity, credibility, and effective communication, choosing website is the right move.
This is especially important for SEO content, business writing, academic work, and digital publishing. Using outdated forms can distract readers and reduce trust in your content.
In short, don’t overthink it. Whether you’re writing an email, blog post, report, or social media caption, website is the spelling that fits modern English.
Stick with it, stay consistent, and your writing will look polished and professional every time.
Mark Nichol is a professional writer and grammar-focused content creator at Grammiffy, where he explains English usage, punctuation, and common writing mistakes in a clear and practical way.
With a reader-friendly approach, Mark helps digital learners improve sentence structure and everyday writing skills with confidence.
