The process of becoming global or worldwide in scope or application: Globalization describes the changes in societies and the world economy that result from dramatically increased international trade and cultural exchange.

Globalization relates to the increase of trade and investing due to the falling of barriers and the interdependence of countries.

Globalization is also the tendency over time for the nations and citizens of the world to become more closely interconnected as a result of factors, such as increased trade and travel, higher rates of immigration, and the spread of mass media, including film and television.

One specific instance of globalization is the worldwide importance of the internet from its beginning as a small network in the United States.