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Definition of programmer

programmer

/ˈproʊˌɡræm.ər/
(UK: programmer)
pro · gram · mer
Plural:programmers
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programmer Lexical Profile

programmer Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who writes, tests, and maintains computer software or code.

Example

"The lead programmer resolved the critical bug in the application before the product launch."

2

A person who plans and schedules shows, music, or events for a television network, radio station, or arts festival.

Example

"As a film festival programmer, she watches hundreds of independent movies each year to curate the lineup."

3

An electronic device that automatically controls the timing and operation of a machine or system, such as a central heating system or microcontroller.

Example

"We used a digital programmer to set the central heating to turn on an hour before we wake up."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for programmer

• Rhymes for programmer

• Nearby Words

programmable
programmatic
programmatically
programmer
programming
progress
progression

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the verb 'program' and the agentive suffix '-er', ultimately tracing back to Late Latin 'programma' and Ancient Greek 'programma' (a public written notice), from 'prographein' (to write publicly). The computing sense emerged in the mid-20th century alongside the development of early electronic computers.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Programmer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/programmer
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