# hacker

/ˈhækɝ/ (US) · /hˈækɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hacker
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who uses computers to get into other people's systems or data without permission. Sometimes it also describes a very skilled programmer who enjoys finding clever solutions to technical problems. In computing, a hacker is someone who builds or modifies hardware or software for fun, often to make it do something it was not originally intended to do.

For teachers: an individual who uses technical knowledge to gain unauthorised access to computer systems or data. In a broader technical context, refers to a skilled programmer who manipulates code for creative or non-standard purposes. In computing and electronics, this refers to the 'maker' culture of creative tinkering, where individuals modify existing systems or devices to improve them or add new features.

## Examples

- A hacker tried to steal passwords from the company website.
- The bank hired a professional hacker to test their security systems and find any weak spots.
- While the media often portrays the hacker as a malicious actor, the term originally described enthusiasts who pushed the boundaries of software to improve its efficiency and functionality.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with modifiers like 'ethical' or 'white-hat' to distinguish security professionals from criminals.

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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.