WordGarden.ioprogrammable
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /prˈəʊɡrəməbəl/
US
- /ˈproʊˌɡræməbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
able to be controlled or configured by stored instructions, especially in software or electronic devices
able to be shaped or conditioned to behave in a predictable way
Beyond the definition
Imagine a robot chef! It doesn't just cook one dish; it can be set with recipes for hundreds of meals. That's what "programmable" means: able to follow instructions to do different tasks, not fixed to do only one thing.
Think about your phone. It's programmable because apps can change what it does. A thermostat is programmable; you set the temperature and schedule, and it follows those instructions. Even a simple light switch can be programmable with timers. The key is that something receives instructions, rather than being built to do just one thing. Programmable things are flexible and adaptable; they respond to what you tell them to do.
"Programmable" describes something that can be controlled by a set of instructions, or a program. It suggests flexibility and adaptability; instead of having only one fixed function, a programmable device or system can be set up to perform different tasks based on the instructions it receives.
Originally, "programmable" was closely associated with computers and technology. Early computers were programmed with punch cards that told them what calculations to perform. Today, we see it everywhere: from washing machines with custom cycles to car systems that adjust settings based on driver preferences.
But the idea can extend beyond electronics. A city planner might design a "programmable" public space: one that can be easily adapted for different events like concerts, farmers' markets, or festivals. In a broader sense, the word can also describe systems or spaces whose use changes depending on the instructions or settings they are given.
The rise of "no-code" and "low-code" platforms is making more things programmable for everyday users. You don't need to be a software engineer to automate tasks or create simple applications.
So whether it's a complex machine, a household device, or a flexible space, "programmable" points to the ability to change behavior based on instructions, opening up more possibilities for customization and useful new functions.
Examples
- 1
Home heating
The apartment has a programmable thermostat, so the heat turns down at night.
- 2
Keyboard shortcuts
This keyboard has six programmable keys for shortcuts.
- 3
Smart lighting
The lights are programmable through an app, so you can set a different color for each room.
- 4
Educational robots
The small robot is programmable to follow a line or avoid obstacles.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Beginner hardware
The board is programmable in Python, which makes it easier for beginners to use.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- scriptable
- customizable
- reconfigurable
Contrast
- nonprogrammable
- hardwired
Used with (collocations)
- programmable logic controller
- programmable thermostat
- programmable keys
- programmable device
Word family
- programmability
- program
Explore
- automation
- embedded system
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- programmableadjective