# perm

/pˈɜːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a setting that controls who can see or change a file or folder. You usually need to ask an admin if you want to change one.

For teachers: a setting that defines the access rights or privileges granted to a user or process for a specific system resource. Often used in the plural form in technical contexts.

## Examples

- I need to change the perms on this folder.
- The system administrator had to reset the perms because the new developers couldn't access the shared repository.
- Incorrectly configured perms on a root directory can lead to significant security vulnerabilities, allowing unauthorized users to execute scripts or modify sensitive configuration files.

## Usage notes

- Informal clipping of 'permission'; almost exclusively used in computing and system administration.

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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.