Lab46 is a mixed of Linux (GNU/kernel) and Operating System in a Debian network. (see described below)
Some of terms have lengthy definitions, so this is more general and get-to-the-point as the definition goes.
Linux is a Unix-like operating system developed by Linus Torvalds of University of Helsinki, beginning in 1991. It falls under the GPL, and is Free Software.
An operating system is the core set of programs that handles your computer's key functions. Windows is an example of an operating system.
The kernel is the core of the operating system which handles basic functions.
It is a collection of compiled programs (binaries), programs and scripts that allows a user to install Linux onto a computer, albeit effortless.
Most Free distribution (all Free software), dpkg packaging “for hard core believers in the politics of free software.”