Definition

1. Noun:

   • (Computing) A system of symbols representing instructions for a computer: A precise set of instructions or the symbolic arrangement of data that a computer can execute.
   • A system of signals or symbols for communication: A system, often secret, used to represent letters or numbers in messages, especially for brevity or secrecy.
   • A systematic collection of laws, rules, or principles: A written set of regulations, standards, or ethical guidelines governing conduct in a specific area.

2. Verb:

   • To convert information into a coded form: To use a code to transform a message, especially to conceal its meaning.
   • To assign a classifying code to something: To mark or label something with a specific identifier, such as a number or symbol, for organization or identification.

Examples

• Noun:

  • The programmer wrote clean, efficient code for the new application.
  • Spies used a complex code to send messages without detection.
  • All members of the profession must adhere to its ethical code.

• Verb:

  • You must code this confidential document before emailing it.
  • The librarian will code each book with a unique call number.

Advanced Usage

• "To crack a code": to succeed in deciphering a secret code.

  • The cryptanalysts worked for months to crack the enemy's code.

• "In code": expressed using a code.

  • The instructions were written in code, so only initiates could understand them.

• "To live by a code": to strictly follow a personal set of rules or principles.

  • The old knight swore to live by a chivalric code.

Variants and Related Words

• Coder (n): A person who writes computer code; a programmer.
• Encoding (n): The process of converting information into a code.
• Decode (v): To convert coded data back into its original form.
• Codebook (n): A book listing codes and their corresponding meanings.
• Binary code (n): A coding system using the binary digits 0 and 1.

Synonyms

• Noun: Cipher, cryptogram, protocol, algorithm, statute, regulation.
• Verb: Encipher, encrypt, cipher, classify, tag, label.

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Code for: To write a computer program for a specific purpose or platform.

  • She learned to code for mobile devices.

• Code something as: To classify or label something in a specific category.

  • The transaction was coded as a business expense.

Related Idioms

• Penal code: The body of law relating to crimes and their punishments.

  • The offense is listed in the state's penal code.

• Genetic code: The set of rules by which information in DNA and RNA is translated into proteins.

  • Scientists are mapping the human genetic code.

• Dress code: A set of rules specifying the required manner of dress.

  • The restaurant has a strict dress code.

Noun

1. (computer science) the symbolic arrangement of data or instructions in a computer program or the set of such instructions
2. a coding system used for transmitting messages requiring brevity or secrecy
3. a set of rules or principles or laws (especially written ones)

Verb

1. convert ordinary language into code
   • We should encode the message for security reasons
2. attach a code to
   • Code the pieces with numbers so that you can identify them later