Table of Contents
Computer Vocabulary List
Here is a list of computer vocabulary grouped into different categories:
Hardware
The hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices.
CPU
This stands for Central Processing Unit, the most important part of a computer.
Memory
A unit of a computer that preserves data for retrieval or capacity for storing information.
Modem
A device for connecting two computers by a telephone line.
Peripheral
An auxiliary device, such as a printer, modem, or storage system, that works in conjunction with a computer.
Printer
A device that prints text or graphics on paper.
Scanner
A computer peripheral device that enables printed material to be converted into digital form.
Software
Softwares refer to programs and applications that run on a computer, performing various tasks and operations.
Browser
A program that accesses and displays files and other data available on the Internet and other networks.
Bluetooth
A standard for the short-range wireless interconnection of cellular phones, computers, and other electronic devices.
Bug
A defect in the code or routine of a program.
Command
A line of code written as part of a computer program.
Database
A systematized collection of data that can be accessed immediately and manipulated by a data-processing system for a specific purpose.
Driver
A piece of software that enables a computer to communicate with a peripheral device.
Firewall
A security system designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.
Operating System
Software that controls the overall operation of a computer system. Examples of operating systems include Windows 7, OS X, Unix, iOS.
Program
A set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a specific task.
Software
Programs and other operating information used by a computer.
Virus
A malicious program designed to damage or disrupt the normal operation of a computer.
Data Storage and Management
The processes and technologies used to store, organize, and maintain digital data securely and efficiently.
Backup
A copy of a program or file that is stored separately from the original.
Bit
A fundamental unit of information having just two possible values, as either of the binary digits 0 or 1.
Byte
A sequence of adjacent bits, usually eight, operated on as a unit by a computer.
Cache
A small high-speed memory that improves computer performance.
CD-ROM
A compact disc that functions as read-only memory.
File
A collection of related data or program records stored as a unit with a single name.
Flash Drive
A small electronic device containing flash memory that is used for storing data or transferring it to or from a computer, digital camera, etc.
Format
To prepare (a computer disk) so that it can store information in a particular format.
RAM
This stands for Random Access Memory, a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly.
Networking and Communication
The systems and protocols that enable computers and devices to connect, share resources, and exchange information.
Electronic mail; messages sent or received from one computer to another.
Network
A group of interconnected computers and devices that can share resources and information.
Router
A device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
URL
This stands for Uniform Resource Locator, the address of a resource on the Internet.
Wi-Fi
A technology that allows computers and other devices to communicate over a wireless signal.
User Interface
Icon
A picture on a screen that represents a specific file, directory, window, option, or program.
Copy, Cut, and Paste
- Copy: Duplicate the contents of a document or file.
- Cut: Remove a part of a document or graphics file.
- Paste: Insert (text, graphics, or other data) into a document or file.
Miscellaneous
DOS
This stands for Disk Operating System, a computer processing system for computers.
Programming Languages
Programming Language
A formal language used to communicate instructions to a computer.
Compiler
A program that translates code from a high-level programming language to a lower-level language.
Interpreter
A program that executes instructions written in a programming language directly, without requiring them to be compiled into machine code.
Debugging
The process of finding and fixing defects or problems within a program.
Source Code
The human-readable instructions written in a programming language.
Algorithm
A step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem, often used in programming.
Computer-Related Phrases and Collocations
- Boot up To start a computer and load its operating system.
- Log in / Log on To gain access to a computer system or network by entering a username and password.
- Log out / Log off To exit a computer system or network, ending a session.
- Set up To install and configure hardware or software on a computer.
- Shut down To turn off a computer.
- Run a program To execute or start a software application on a computer.
- Install software To place a program on a computer so it can be used.
- Uninstall software To remove a program from a computer.
- Download a file To transfer a file from the internet or another computer to your own device.
- Upload a file To transfer a file from your computer to the internet or another device.
- Crash When a computer or program stops working suddenly and unexpectedly.
- Freeze When a computer or program becomes unresponsive and stops functioning.
- Reboot To restart a computer.
- Surf the web To browse and navigate through websites on the internet.
- Back up data To make a copy of data stored on a computer to prevent loss.
- Update software To install the latest version of a program to improve performance or fix issues.
- Browse the internet To look through web pages and websites online.
- Cut and paste To move text or data from one place to another on a computer.
- Copy and paste To duplicate text or data from one place and insert it in another.
- Plug in To connect a device to a power source or another device.
- Hard drive The primary storage device in a computer used to store data permanently.
- Cloud storage A service that allows you to save data on remote servers accessed from the internet.
- User-friendly Easy to use or understand, often describing software or devices.
Computer-Related Idioms
There are several computer-related idioms in English! Here are a few:
- To crash:
- Used metaphorically to describe a sudden failure or breakdown in a system or plan.
- Example: “Our project crashed when the main investor pulled out.”
- To reboot:
- Referring to starting something anew or refreshing a situation.
- Example: “Let’s reboot our marketing strategy for the new product launch.”
- To debug:
- This means to find and fix errors or problems.
- Example: “We need to debug this code before we can launch the app.”
- To go viral:
- Refers to something, usually content or information, spreading rapidly and widely across the internet.
- Example: “That video of the cat playing piano went viral on social media.”
- To plug and play:
- Describes something that is easy to set up and use without needing any special configuration or installation.
- Example: “The new printer is plug and play, so you can start using it right away.”
- To be on the same wavelength:
- This means to have mutual understanding or agreement, often used in communication contexts.
- Example: “We’re on the same wavelength about the direction of the project.”
- To be wired:
- Refers to being alert, energetic, or excited.
- Example: “I’m all wired up for the big presentation tomorrow.”
- To crash a party:
- Means to attend a social gathering without being invited.
- Example: “We crashed the party next door and had a great time.”
The above idioms are frequently used in both casual conversation and professional contexts. They draw from computer and technology terminology to convey metaphorical meanings.
Test your Knowledge with this Computer Vocabulary Quiz
Say whether these statements are true or false:
- The CPU is the most important part of a computer. (…)
- A byte is made up of 16 bits. (…)
- Software refers to the physical components of a computer. (…)
- A browser is used to access and display files on the Internet. (…)
- RAM stands for Random Access Memory. (…)
- A firewall is used to print documents. (…)
- Wi-Fi is a technology that allows wireless communication between devices. (…)
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