A Steiner point is an intermediate vertex mathematically inserted into a net during the physical layout of an integrated circuit. By branching a wire at a Steiner point rather than routing point-to-point between components, electronic design automation tools can significantly reduce the total wire length, which minimizes parasitic capacitance and improves signal timing.
Heard on the job
The router inserted a Steiner point right in the middle of a congested routing channel, causing a massive DRC violation.