Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Debug Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐞
Add to dictionary

debug

[diˈbəɡ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer programming

Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors in a computer program.

Synonyms

correct, fix, troubleshoot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
debug

Used when you are finding and removing errors or bugs in software or code.

  • I need to debug this program because it keeps crashing.
  • She spent the entire day debugging the new software.
troubleshoot

Used when identifying and solving problems, typically in mechanical or technical systems. It suggests a process of diagnosing the issue before resolving it.

  • We need to troubleshoot the computer to find out why it's running slow.
  • He is very skilled at troubleshooting electronic devices.
fix

Used in a general sense for repairing or resolving issues; it can refer to a wide range of problems, from broken objects to software issues.

  • Can you fix the broken chair?
  • The IT team is trying to fix the network issue.
correct

Used when you need to make something right or accurate; it can refer to fixing various types of errors, not just in software.

  • He corrected the spelling errors in the document.
  • The teacher corrected the student's math mistakes.

Examples of usage

  • I spent all night debugging my code to find that one elusive bug.
  • Debugging requires patience and attention to detail.
Context #2 | Verb

computer programming

To debug a program means to identify and solve problems or errors in the code.

Synonyms

correct, fix, troubleshoot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
debug

Used specifically in the context of identifying and removing errors from computer programs or software.

  • I need to debug this code before the release.
  • She spent the entire night debugging the new software update.
troubleshoot

Used in technical and other problem-solving scenarios to describe the process of diagnosing the source of a problem and trying various solutions to resolve it.

  • The IT team was called to troubleshoot the network issues.
  • She has a knack for troubleshooting complicated device malfunctions.
fix

A general term used for repairing or resolving any kind of problem or malfunction, not limited to technical issues.

  • The plumber came to fix the leaky faucet.
  • Can you fix the broken chair?
correct

Generally used to indicate the process of making something right or accurate. It can apply to various contexts, not just technical ones.

  • Please correct the spelling errors in this document.
  • He needs to correct his posture to avoid back pain.

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to debug your code before submitting it for review.
  • The developer spent hours debugging the software to ensure it worked flawlessly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'debug'

The term 'debug' originated in the context of early computing systems. In 1947, Grace Hopper, an American computer scientist, found a moth trapped in a relay of the Harvard Mark II computer, causing a malfunction. She removed the moth and logged the 'bug' in the system, coining the term 'debugging.' Since then, 'debug' has become a common term in computer programming to refer to the process of identifying and fixing errors in software.

See also: debugging.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,765, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.