Code: meaning, definitions and examples

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code

[koʊd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

programming

A system of symbols and rules used to represent instructions to a computer. It is a set of instructions that tells a computer how to perform a certain task.

Synonyms

algorithm, programming, script.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
code	Used to refer to the written instructions that a computer can execute. Commonly used by software developers and programmers when they write or review programs. I need to refactor this code to improve its performance. The code base for this project is quite large.
programming	Refers to the overall activity or process of writing and maintaining the source code. Used in educational contexts, job descriptions, and hobby or professional activities. Programming requires not only writing code but also testing and debugging it. She is learning Python programming.
script	Used to refer to a short program written for a specific task, often written in scripting languages like Python, JavaScript, or Bash. It may imply a task-specific or temporary nature. I wrote a script to automate the backup process. This script will extract data from the database and generate a report.
algorithm	Typically used in the context of computer science and mathematics to describe a set of rules or steps to solve a problem or perform a task. Often discussed in theoretical contexts or when focusing on the logic behind the operations. We need a more efficient algorithm to sort this data. He studied the algorithm needed to solve the Rubik's Cube.

Examples of usage

She is learning to code in Python.
He wrote a code to automate the process.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

programming

To write instructions for a computer program. It involves creating a series of commands that a computer can execute.

Synonyms

develop, program, script.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
code	General term for writing instructions for computers. Used in both casual and professional settings. Suitable for referring to a collection of lines that make up a computer program. She spent the entire weekend writing code for her project. You need to check your code for errors before running it.
program	Refers to a complete and functional software application. Also used as a verb meaning to write code. Used both casually and professionally. She created a program to automate her tasks. I learned how to program in Python.
script	Usually refers to a smaller, often simpler piece of code that automates tasks. Frequently used in the context of web development or system administration. Can sometimes imply something non-complex. He wrote a script to back up his files every day. You can use a script to automate this process.
develop	Broader context involving the entire process of creating software, from planning to coding to testing. Used more formally. He works for a company that develops mobile apps. We need to develop a new feature for our website.

Examples of usage

He likes to code in Java.
She coded the new feature in the software.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'code' comes from the Latin word 'codex', which referred to a book or manuscript.
Originally, in the 14th century, 'code' was used to mean a collection of laws or rules.
In the 19th century, it evolved to signify a systematic way of writing, such as computer programming.

Technology

There are many programming languages, such as Python and Java, that allow developers to write 'code' to create software.
Code can be compiled (turned into machine language) or interpreted (run by a software program) depending on how it's written.
Blockchain technology, which supports cryptocurrencies, relies heavily on coded algorithms to keep data secure.

Pop Culture

Movies like 'The Imitation Game' depict code-breaking during World War II, highlighting its historical significance.
Video games often require players to crack codes to unlock new levels or achieve objectives.
The popular series 'Mr. Robot' follows a hacker’s journey, showcasing the culture around coding and cybersecurity.

Psychology

Research shows that learning to code can enhance problem-solving skills and logical thinking.
Code often relies on patterns, which our brains find easier to remember and process.
The act of deciphering a code can engage both the logical and creative parts of the brain.

Literature

Many authors use coded messages in their works to create intrigue, such as in Agatha Christie's mysteries.
In classic literature, characters sometimes resort to codes to convey secrets without being overheard.
The novel 'The Da Vinci Code' popularized the idea of cryptography in literature, blending puzzles with thriller elements.

Translations

Translations of the word "code" in other languages:

🇵🇹 código

🇮🇳 कोड

🇩🇪 Code

🇮🇩 kode

🇺🇦 код

🇵🇱 kod

🇯🇵 コード

🇫🇷 code

🇪🇸 código

🇹🇷 kod

🇰🇷 코드

🇸🇦 رمز

🇨🇿 kód

🇸🇰 kód

🇨🇳 代码

🇸🇮 koda

🇮🇸 kóði

🇰🇿 код

🇬🇪 კოდი

🇦🇿 kod

🇲🇽 código

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,588, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

...
1585 ill
1586 signal
1587 train
1588 code
1589 mere
1590 extremely
1591 necessarily
...