What does programming mean?
Programming is the process of creating instructions that tell computers and other programmable systems what to do. It commonly includes designing algorithms, writing code in one or more programming languages, testing behaviour, diagnosing errors, and maintaining software. The term also has a broader sense: programming can mean arranging a planned sequence of events, as in television programming, or configuring an automated system. Modern programming supports websites, mobile applications, games, scientific research, financial services, transportation, and much of the infrastructure of everyday life. Although programming is often associated with software developers, it can also refer to work by mathematicians, engineers, analysts, designers, and people who configure systems without writing conventional code. The field is known for problem-solving, logical reasoning, precision, creativity, and continual testing. Learning its basic ideas can also help non-specialists understand how digital tools represent processes and why software can fail in predictable as well as unexpected ways.
nounThe activity of designing, writing, testing, and maintaining computer instructions or code. It can also refer more broadly to the process of giving a system a planned sequence of actions or settings.
- The activity of writing or modifying software code, including designing algorithms, testing programs, and fixing errors.
- The planning and setting of a sequence of actions for a system, such as a broadcast schedule or an automated device.
"She has a background in programming and now develops software for medical devices."
"The programming required to coordinate the laboratory instruments was developed over several years."
"The station's programming for the holiday included documentaries, concerts, and local news reports."
Rare and rarely needed; ordinary usage treats programming as an uncountable noun.
"The conference brought together programmers responsible for several different programmings."
Programming gave computers instructions long before it gave them intelligence—and it remains the foundation on which nearly every modern digital system is built.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does programming come from?
Programming was formed in English by adding the suffix -ing to program, ultimately from French programme. French programme came from Greek programma, a public notice or written declaration, built from pro-, meaning “forward” or “public,” and gramma, meaning “written thing” or “letter.” The form programming developed as computer programming became a distinct field during the twentieth century.
Related word forms
How programming is actually used
In computing, the term is normally formal and technical. In media contexts, it often means the overall schedule or content, while in broader contexts it can describe the systematic preparation of an activity.