trying to block websites using my Terminal application and I keep getting the command not found prompt

nano is a valid editor.

/etc/hosts is a valid directory references, and the hosts file is indeed located there.

But without a space after nano, the string you entered becomes the directory reference nano/etc/hosts and there is no executable file there with that name.

Unix commands are like VERY sharp tools. But inexperienced users who try to reach into that toolbox blindly usually end up cutting their fingers off. There are NO protections from things that WILL hurt you.

Surely there is a better way to accomplish what you want.

if its kids, this may help:

Set up parental controls on Mac - Apple Support

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The Utility named Terminal presents a UNIX-like terminal Interface. it is for working "under the hood" on the guts of MacOS that are not available for manipulation in the Graphic User Interface.

I think you may have mistaken it for a different terminal program.

If not, what commands are you trying to use to do this blocking?

Block them from your kids?

or for what purpose?