# encoding

/ɛnˈkoʊdɪŋ/ (US) · /ɛnkˈəʊdɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/encoding
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. digital data format

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the way a computer turns characters or symbols into data it can understand.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. converting to code

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

changing a message into a secret code or a different form so it can be sent.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The software handles the encoding of video files automatically.
- Correct character encoding is essential to ensure that text displays properly across different operating systems and web browsers.
- In cognitive psychology, encoding refers to the initial process of perceiving and transforming sensory input into a mental representation that can be stored in long-term memory.

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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.