Word
encoding
Phoneticsen·cod·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɛnˈkoʊdɪŋ/
UK/ɛnkˈəʊdɪŋ/
Definitions
01digital data format
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Computing Technical
n. the way a computer turns characters or symbols into data it can understand.
n. the process of mapping characters or symbols to specific bit patterns or bytes to enable digital storage and display.
“If you use the wrong encoding, the text on the website might look like strange symbols.”
“The developer had to ensure the database used UTF-8 encoding to support the various character sets required by the international user base.”
Usage
often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general process.
Teaching tip
Learners often confuse this with 'encryption'; explain that encoding is for compatibility, while encryption is for secrecy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02converting to code
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Technical
n. changing a message into a secret code or a different form so it can be sent.
n. the conversion of information from one system of communication into another, often for security or efficient transmission.
“The encoding of the secret message took several hours even with a fast computer.”
“The software handles the encoding of video files into smaller formats, making them much easier to share over slow internet connections.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Just as with the compass neurons, silencing the neurons encoding the odor’s edge position made it impossible for the flies to find it.” “It may also lead to better ways of transmitting signals between devices and encoding more information within them.” 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
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/encoding