ENGLISH
REFERENCE

programmed

v. · adj.
US //ˈpɹoʊˌɡɹæmd// UK //pɹˈəʊɡɹæmd// pro·grammed
  1. 1 gave instructions to a computer (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    gave a computer or machine a set of instructions to follow.

    provided a computer or electronic device with a sequence of coded instructions for automatic execution.

    Example

    She programmed the robot to move whenever it heard a loud noise.

    Example

    The engineers programmed the satellite to enter a low-power state during the solar eclipse to preserve its battery life.
    Pitfall
    He programed the software.
    He programmed the software.

    In both British and American English, the past tense of 'program' is usually spelled with a double 'm'.

  2. 2 planned or scheduled (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    planned an event or a series of activities.

    arranged or scheduled a series of events, performances, or activities within a larger framework.

    Example

    The festival programmed several local bands to play on the main stage.

    Example

    The gallery programmed a series of interactive workshops to run alongside the main exhibition during the summer months.
  3. 3 automatic or fixed (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    happening automatically because of a habit or a set of rules.

    behaving or operating in a fixed, automatic way as if following a set of instructions.

    Example

    His response seemed programmed, as if he was just repeating what he was told.

    Example

    The animal's migration patterns are programmed by seasonal changes in daylight and temperature.
  4. 4 religious service style (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Religion

    describes a church service that has a planned schedule and a leader.

    referring to a Quaker meeting or religious service that follows a set order and is led by a minister.

    Example

    They attended a programmed meeting where a pastor gave a prepared talk.

    Example

    Unlike the silent worship of traditional Friends, programmed meetings often include hymns, scripture readings, and a prepared sermon.

    Usage

    Primarily used within Quaker (Religious Society of Friends) contexts to distinguish from silent meetings.
    • unprogrammed

Last updated June 20, 2026