What does relocatable mean?
Relocatable describes something that can be moved from one location, system, or computer to another without being permanently fixed in place. The word is especially common in computing, where it refers to software, applications, programs, or data that can be transferred between compatible machines. A relocatable application may be moved, reinstalled, or run in a different environment while retaining its essential functions. Outside technology, the adjective can describe a person, object, or business location that can be moved, though such uses are less frequent. The term is useful because it emphasizes flexibility and portability rather than simply physical mobility. It also implies that the movement or transfer is technically possible and does not require substantial redesign or reconstruction. Relocatable is formed from relocate with the suffix -able, indicating that something can undergo the action described by the verb.
adjectiveCapable of being moved or transferred from one location, system, or computer to another. In computing, it often describes software that can be installed, run, or moved across compatible systems.
- Able to be moved or transferred from one place, system, or computer to another.
- In computing, designed so that software or data can be moved, installed, or run in another compatible environment.
"The application is relocatable, so it can be transferred to another computer without losing its settings."
"Relocatable programs are useful when several people need to use the same software on different computers."
"The company is seeking a relocatable office for its new branch."
"The data should remain relocatable so that it can be moved between servers."
Relocatable software can travel: install it on a compatible computer and take it with you without tying it to one machine.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does relocatable come from?
The word is a derivative of relocate, which comes from Latin re- meaning “again” and locare, meaning “to place.” The suffix -able was added to form the adjective in the 19th century. The modern computing sense developed later as software became regularly transferred between different computer systems. The family includes relocate, relocation, and relocator, all sharing the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How relocatable is actually used
Most common in computing, where it describes software or data that can be transferred between compatible systems. It can also describe a person, object, or place capable of being moved, though this use is less frequent.
Easily confused with relocatable
Relocate is a verb meaning to move something to a new location, whereas relocatable is an adjective describing something capable of being moved.