# hex

/ˈhɛks/ (US) · /hˈɛks/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hex
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a magic spell that is meant to bring bad luck or trouble to someone. In computing, it is also a short way to say 'hexadecimal', which is a system for writing numbers using sixteen symbols.

For teachers: a magic spell or curse intended to cause misfortune; in technical contexts, a shortened form of 'hexadecimal' referring to a base-16 numbering system. Often used in informal or supernatural contexts to describe a persistent streak of bad luck.

## Examples

- She believed a rival had put a hex on her business.
- The programmer spent hours looking at the raw hex data to find the error in the file's header.
- Whether viewed as a literal hex cast by a vengeful spirit or merely a series of unfortunate coincidences, the family's sudden decline in fortune became the talk of the village.

## Usage notes

- In its supernatural sense, it is often used with the verb 'to put' or 'to cast'. In computing, it is frequently used as a modifier before other nouns like 'code' or 'editor'.

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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.