# developer

/dɪˈvɛɫəpɝ/ (US) · /dɪvˈɛləpɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/developer
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. software

noun · CEFR B1

a person who writes code and creates computer programs or apps.

For teachers: a professional who designs, codes, and tests computer software or mobile applications.

- The lead developer fixed the bug in the app before the update was released.
- The senior developer spent the afternoon refactoring the legacy code to improve the application's performance and scalability.

Usage: Often used with 'software', 'web', or 'app' as a modifier.

### 2. real estate

noun · CEFR B2

a person or company that buys land and builds new houses or offices on it.

For teachers: an individual or entity that acquires land and manages the construction of buildings or infrastructure for profit.

- A property developer bought the old factory to turn it into luxury apartments.
- The developer faced significant opposition from local residents regarding the proposed shopping centre's impact on traffic and green space.

### 3. photography chemical

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a special liquid used to make a picture appear on film.

For teachers: a chemical agent used in the processing of traditional photographic film or paper to make the latent image visible.

- He poured the developer into the tray and waited for the photo to appear.
- The photographer carefully monitored the temperature of the developer, as even a slight variation could alter the contrast of the final print.

### 4. general creator

noun · CEFR B2

someone who works to improve or create a new product or idea.

For teachers: an agent responsible for the systematic growth or advancement of a specific product, project, or concept.

- She is the main developer of the company's new marketing strategy.
- As the primary developer of the curriculum, he ensured that the learning objectives aligned with national educational standards.

## Examples

- The lead developer fixed the bug in the new app.
- After finishing university, she found a job as a junior developer at a local tech startup.
- The project's success depends on the lead developer's ability to coordinate between the design team and the backend engineers while maintaining clean, scalable code.

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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.