# open-source

CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/open-source
Updated: 2026-09-18

## Definition

Describes software whose code anyone can look at, change, or share.

For teachers: Describing software whose source code is publicly available for inspection, modification, and redistribution under a specified license.

## Examples

- The company released an open-source AI model.
- Developers can modify the open-source software under its license.

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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.