# coding

/ˈkoʊdɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈəʊdɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coding
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. computer programming

noun · CEFR B1

the act of writing instructions for a computer using a programming language.

For teachers: the process of writing, testing, and maintaining the source code of computer software.

- She started learning coding because she wanted to build her own mobile apps.
- Modern coding requires not only a grasp of syntax but also an understanding of algorithmic efficiency and version control systems.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the activity in general.

### 2. encoding information

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

the way information is changed into a special form, such as a secret code or a digital format.

For teachers: the process of converting data or messages into a specific symbolic form for transmission or storage.

- The coding of the message was so complex that no one could read it without the key.
- The efficient coding of video data allows for high-quality streaming even over relatively slow internet connections.

### 4. medical emergency

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a way for doctors to talk about a patient's emergency without scaring other people.

For teachers: a system of signals or terms used in medical environments to communicate urgent patient status, such as cardiac arrest.

- The hospital staff began coding the patient as soon as his heart stopped beating.
- The rapid response team is trained to handle coding events with precision to maximize the chances of patient resuscitation.

## Examples

- She is learning coding to build her own website.
- The school added coding to the curriculum to prepare students for careers in the technology sector.
- While the logic of coding remains consistent across different platforms, the specific syntax varies significantly between high-level languages like Python and low-level languages like C++.

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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.