Word
encode
Phoneticsen·code, stress on the second syllable
US/ɛnˈkoʊd/
UK/ɛnkˈəʊd/
Definition
v. to change information into a special code or a different form so it can be stored or sent. In biology, it means how a gene tells a cell to make a specific protein.
v. to convert data or information into a specific code or format. In a biological context, refers to the process by which genetic information in DNA is transcribed into messenger RNA and then translated into a sequence of amino acids.
Examples
“The software can encode your voice into a digital file.”
“Scientists use specific enzymes to encode the genetic instructions found in DNA into functional proteins within the cell.”
“The genetic code is a universal system that allows the information encoded in DNA to be translated into the specific sequence of amino acids that form a protein.”
Examples
simple
“The software can encode your voice into a digital file.”
contextual
“Scientists use specific enzymes to encode the genetic instructions found in DNA into functional proteins within the cell.”
complex
“The genetic code is a universal system that allows the information encoded in DNA to be translated into the specific sequence of amino acids that form a protein.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “encode” in context.
Verb
01. encode information
“Neurons in the brain encode information about our surroundings to help us navigate.”
verb + noun
Real-World Examples
“For example, ΦX174 uses its own version of a spike protein to latch onto and infect bacteria; if the gene that encodes spike is missing or damaged, the virus simply wouldn’t work.” “This subtle chemical change prevents the unwanted immune response while allowing the therapeutic mRNA to direct the cell to make the protein it encodes .” “It is unique to one job, encodes no name, account number or other direct identifier, and appears in every participating company’s record.” Etymology
From en- + code.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/encode