Programmable
/prəʊˈɡræməbəl/
Definitions
Capable of being programmed or controlled by a program.
/prəʊˈɡræməbəl/
Modern washing machines are highly programmable.
💡 Simply: If something is programmable, it means you can give it instructions to follow. Imagine a smart toy; you can give it a list of commands, and it'll follow them. A programmable device can be set up to do different things depending on what you tell it.
👶 For kids: It means something you can tell what to do by giving it instructions like a computer.
More Examples
The drone's flight path is programmable, allowing for complex maneuvers.
Engineers are developing programmable materials that can change their shape.
How It's Used
"A programmable logic controller (PLC) is used to automate industrial processes."
"The programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From "program" + "-able". "Program" comes from the Greek "pro-" (before) + "-gramma" (something written). The suffix "-able" indicates capability or possibility. Therefore, 'programmable' denotes something that can be programmed.
The term gained prominence with the advent of computers in the mid-20th century, initially referring to instructions for computing machines. Its usage has broadened since then.
Memory tip
Think of a robot that can be made to dance – it's programmable because you can tell it what to do.
Word Origin
"Program (from Greek 'pro' - before, and 'gramma' - something written) indicating a pre-defined set of instructions; -able (Latin suffix indicating capability)."