Executable: meaning, definitions and examples
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executable
[ ɪɡˈzɛkjətəbəl ]
computing
A file that contains a program, which can be run or executed by the computer. Executable files typically have extensions like .exe, .bat, or .com.
Synonyms
application, program, software.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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executable |
This term is commonly used in computing to refer specifically to a file that is capable of being executed by a computer.
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program |
Program is a general term for a set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a task. It can refer to anything from a simple script to a complex suite of applications.
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application |
Application is used to describe a software program designed to perform a group of coordinated functions, tasks, or activities for the benefit of the user.
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software |
Software refers to the entire collection of programs, procedures, and routines associated with the operation of a computer system. It is often used in a broader sense to include applications, tools, and operating systems.
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Examples of usage
- The user double-clicked on the executable to launch the application.
- Make sure to scan the executable for viruses before running it.
- The executable crashed unexpectedly, causing the system to freeze.
- Developers often distribute software in the form of executable files.
- Running an executable without knowing its source can be risky.
computing
Capable of being executed or run as a program on a computer.
Synonyms
launchable, operable, runnable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
executable |
Typically used in computing to describe a file that has the ability to be executed or run by a computer. It's often in specific technical contexts, primarily for software and scripts.
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runnable |
Primarily (but less commonly) used in computing, similar to 'executable,' to describe files or scripts that can be run by a computer. It can also be more informally used to describe things that can be initiated successfully.
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launchable |
Used to describe something that can be initiated or started, often used for applications, programs, or even larger projects. This term is common in both technical and non-technical contexts.
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operable |
This word describes something that can be operated or controlled, often indicating functionality and usability. It is used not only for software or machines but also in more general contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The script needs to be made executable before it can be run.
- After compiling the code, it becomes an executable file.
Translations
Translations of the word "executable" in other languages:
🇵🇹 executável
🇮🇳 निष्पादन योग्य
🇩🇪 ausführbar
🇮🇩 dapat dieksekusi
🇺🇦 виконуваний
🇵🇱 wykonywalny
🇯🇵 実行可能
🇫🇷 exécutable
🇪🇸 ejecutable
🇹🇷 çalıştırılabilir
🇰🇷 실행 가능한
🇸🇦 قابل للتنفيذ
🇨🇿 spustitelný
🇸🇰 spustiteľný
🇨🇳 可执行
🇸🇮 izvedljiv
🇮🇸 keyrsluhæfur
🇰🇿 орындалатын
🇬🇪 შესასრულებელი
🇦🇿 icra edilə bilən
🇲🇽 ejecutable
Etymology
The term 'executable' originated in computing in the mid-20th century with the development of operating systems that allowed users to run programs directly. It has since become a fundamental concept in software development and computer science, representing files that can be executed by a computer's processor. The widespread use of executables has transformed how applications are distributed and run on various platforms.
See also: executability, executing, execution, executioner, executions, executive, executively, executives, executor, executors.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #22,463, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 22460 productively
- 22461 coached
- 22462 caliph
- 22463 executable
- 22464 inadvertence
- 22465 plastering
- 22466 refresher
- ...