English

1. (Obsolete) The source code for a program, which may be in

any language, as opposed to the linkable or executable binary

produced from it by a compiler. The idea behind the term is

that to a real hacker, a program written in his favourite

programming language is at least as readable as English.

Usage: mostly by old-time hackers, though recognisable in

context.

2. The official name of the database language used by the

Pick operating system, actually a sort of crufty,

brain-damaged SQL with delusions of grandeur. The name

permits marketroids to say "Yes, and you can program our

computers in English!" to ignorant suits without quite

running afoul of the truth-in-advertising laws.

["Exploring the Pick Operating System", J.E. Sisk et al,

Hayden 1986].

[Jargon File]