ROM
n. C / Un. Stands for Read-Only Memory. A type of computer memory that stores data permanently. You cannot change or delete this information easily, and it stays there even when you turn the power off. In computing, a ROM is a file that contains a copy of the data from a video game cartridge or an old computer system.
n. Abbreviation for Read-Only Memory. A type of non-volatile storage medium that permanently stores data on personal computers and other electronic devices. Data stored in this manner is typically read-only and cannot be electronically modified after the manufacture of the memory device. In the context of emulation and software preservation, a ROM refers to a digital image of a read-only memory chip, typically used to play classic games on modern hardware.
The computer's basic instructions are stored in the ROM.
The technician explained that the firmware is hard-coded into the ROM to prevent accidental deletion by the user.
While modern systems often use flash memory for updates, traditional ROM chips were essential for housing the immutable boot instructions required to initialize hardware during the power-on self-test.
In all senses (except Romania in sports), by acronymy.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
I saved my document to the ROM.I saved my document to the hard drive.Learners confuse ROM (Read-Only Memory) with storage like RAM or hard drives; ROM cannot be used for saving user files.
Last updated July 22, 2026