# RFC

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rfc
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

Stands for Request for Comments. A document used in computing to suggest a new idea or change to a standard. It is a way for people to share and discuss technical ideas before they become official rules.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Request for Comments. A formal document used in the development of technical standards, particularly in the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), to propose, discuss, and record new ideas.

## Examples

- The new software update was published as an RFC.
- Before the new security protocol was finalized, it was shared as an RFC to gather feedback from the developer community.
- The RFC process allows for open peer review, ensuring that proposed standards are thoroughly vetted by experts before they are formally adopted by the industry.

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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.
