Obfuscator: meaning, definitions and examples
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obfuscator
[ ˈɒb.fʌs.keɪ.tər ]
computer software
An obfuscator is a tool used to deliberately make something obscure, unclear, or unintelligible. In computing, it specifically refers to software that transforms code into a version that is difficult for humans to understand while retaining its functionality. This is often done to protect intellectual property and hinder reverse engineering.
Synonyms
decompiler, encryptor, masker.
Examples of usage
- The developer used an obfuscator to secure the source code.
- Obfuscators are commonly employed to protect proprietary algorithms.
- Using an obfuscator can prevent unauthorized use of the code.
Etymology
The term 'obfuscator' is derived from the verb 'obfuscate,' which comes from the Latin 'obfuscare,' meaning 'to darken.' The prefix 'ob-' means 'to cover' or 'against,' combined with 'fuscare,' the frequentative form of 'fundere,' meaning 'to pour.' As language evolved, the term began to be associated with the act of making something more difficult to understand. By the late 20th century, as computer programming became more intricate, the need for obfuscation in code gained prominence. Software engineers started to use obfuscators to protect their code from prying eyes in an era where software piracy and intellectual property theft became rampant. Today, obfuscators are standard tools in the software development lifecycle, especially for applications where code security is a primary concern.