# programmatic

/ˌpɹɑɡɹəˈmætɪk/ (US) · /pɹˌəʊɡɹɐmˈætɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/programmatic
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

relating to a specific plan or set of instructions. In music, it often describes a style that follows a strict plan or a series of specific pieces.

For teachers: relating to a planned sequence of actions or a specific set of instructions. In a musical context, it describes a style or performance that follows a structured, pre-determined plan.

## Examples

- The band played a programmatic set of songs.
- The composer's programmatic approach to the symphony meant each movement told a specific story.
- The festival featured a programmatic series of lectures designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution of jazz in the twentieth century.

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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.