# code smell

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/code-smell
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a sign in a computer program's code that suggests there might be a deeper problem. It is not a bug that stops the program, but it shows the code is poorly designed and might cause trouble later.

For teachers: a surface indication in a program's source code that suggests a deeper design flaw or architectural weakness. While not a functional error, it identifies patterns that typically lead to technical debt or maintenance difficulties.

## Examples

- Having a single function that is 500 lines long is a classic code smell.
- The senior developer pointed out several code smells during the review, noting that the duplicated logic would make future updates very difficult.
- Identifying a code smell early in the development cycle allows teams to refactor the architecture before the underlying structural issues become too deeply embedded to fix easily.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the context of refactoring and software craftsmanship; often paired with the verb 'detect' or 'identify'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.