ENGLISH
REFERENCE

programmable

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɹoʊˌɡɹæməbəɫ// UK //pɹˈəʊɡɹɐməbəl// pro·gram·mable

adj. describes a machine or device that you can give a set of instructions to so it works automatically.

adj. capable of being provided with a set of instructions or a sequence of operations to be performed automatically. Often used to describe electronic hardware or appliances.


SIMPLE

I bought a programmable coffee maker that starts every morning at seven.

CONTEXTUAL

The new thermostat is fully programmable, allowing us to set different temperatures for every hour of the day.

COMPLEX

Modern manufacturing relies on programmable logic controllers to manage complex assembly lines with minimal human intervention, ensuring consistent output across thousands of units.

Origin

From program + -able.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'is' or 'becomes'.

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