Plugins: meaning, definitions and examples

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plugins

[ ˈplʌɡɪnz ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

software development

Plugins are software components that add specific features or functionalities to a larger software application. They enhance the capabilities of the main application by extending its functionality.

Synonyms

add-ons, extensions, modules.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
plugins	Used frequently in software and web development to refer to additional pieces of software that enhance the functionality of a primary software application. You can install plugins to add new features to your web browser. This music software allows various plugins for extra sound effects.
extensions	Typically used in the context of web browsers to indicate small software modules that add specific abilities to extend the capabilities of the browser. Chrome extensions can help you manage your time better. She installed an extension to save all her passwords.
add-ons	Often used in the context of web browsers or games to refer to additional components or functionalities that can be added to the core product. I downloaded an add-on for my browser that blocks ads. The game offers several add-ons that can change the appearance of characters.
modules	Commonly used in programming and software development to refer to discrete components that can be used independently or combined with others to build a complete system. The new software was built with several reusable modules. In our coding class, we learned how to create Python modules.

Examples of usage

Many popular content management systems allow users to install plugins for additional customization.
A photo editing software may have plugins for adding special effects or filters.
Plugins for web browsers can improve security or provide additional tools for users.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music production

In music production, plugins refer to software tools used within Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) to add effects, instruments, or processing capabilities to audio tracks. They are essential for creating unique sounds and manipulating audio.

Synonyms

audio plugins, virtual instruments.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
plugins	General term used in software, especially in audio production and web development, for additional modules that add specific features to a larger system. I installed a few plugins to enhance the functionality of my website. The photo editing software offers many useful plugins.
audio plugins	Specific type of plugin used in the field of audio production to add effects, instruments, or processing capabilities to digital audio workstations (DAWs). You can achieve a richer sound by using a variety of audio plugins. He's using reverb and delay audio plugins to create an ambient atmosphere in his tracks.
virtual instruments	Software-based musical instruments that can be used to produce sounds typically provided by physical instruments, often within a DAW or standalone application. The virtual instruments in this DAW are very realistic and provide a wide range of sounds. I love using virtual instruments because they give me the flexibility to experiment with different genres without needing a lot of physical equipment.

Word

Description / Examples

plugins

General term used in software, especially in audio production and web development, for additional modules that add specific features to a larger system.

I installed a few plugins to enhance the functionality of my website.
The photo editing software offers many useful plugins.

audio plugins

Specific type of plugin used in the field of audio production to add effects, instruments, or processing capabilities to digital audio workstations (DAWs).

You can achieve a richer sound by using a variety of audio plugins.
He's using reverb and delay audio plugins to create an ambient atmosphere in his tracks.

virtual instruments

Software-based musical instruments that can be used to produce sounds typically provided by physical instruments, often within a DAW or standalone application.

The virtual instruments in this DAW are very realistic and provide a wide range of sounds.
I love using virtual instruments because they give me the flexibility to experiment with different genres without needing a lot of physical equipment.

Examples of usage

Producers often use plugins like EQs, compressors, and reverbs to enhance the quality of their music.
Virtual instruments in the form of plugins simulate real instruments for musicians to use in their compositions.

Translations

Translations of the word "plugins" in other languages:

🇵🇹 plugins

🇮🇳 प्लगइन्स

🇩🇪 Plugins

🇮🇩 plugin

🇺🇦 плагіни

🇵🇱 wtyczki

🇯🇵 プラグイン

🇫🇷 plugins

🇪🇸 plugins

🇹🇷 eklenti

🇰🇷 플러그인

🇸🇦 إضافات

🇨🇿 pluginy

🇸🇰 pluginy

🇨🇳 插件

🇸🇮 vtičniki

🇮🇸 viðbætur

🇰🇿 плагиндер

🇬🇪 პლაგინები

🇦🇿 plaginlər

🇲🇽 plugins

Etymology

The term 'plugins' originated in the field of software development, where it referred to adding additional functionality to an existing program. Over time, it expanded to other industries like music production, where plugins became essential tools for creating and enhancing audio. The concept of plugins has revolutionized the way software applications and digital workstations operate, allowing for customizable and versatile user experiences.