What Does Node Mean?
A node is a point of intersection/connection within a data communication network. In an environment where all devices are accessible through the network, these devices are all considered nodes. The individual definition of each node depends on the type of network it refers to.
Techopedia Explains Node
The idea of nodes was popularized with the adoption of packet-switching theory and the concept of distributed networks. In this context, nodes were gateways that could receive, store and send information along different routes through a distributed network. Each node was given an equal standing within the network, meaning that the loss of any one node would not significantly hurt the network. (See also: Network Topology)