# WAL

/ˈwɔɫ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wal
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. Wales

noun · CEFR B2

Stands for Wales.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Wales, the country that is part of the United Kingdom.

- The rugby match was listed as ENG vs WAL on the scoreboard.
- In international sporting fixtures, the three-letter code WAL is standard for representing the Welsh national team.

### 2. computing data method

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

Stands for write-ahead logging.

For teachers: Abbreviation for write-ahead logging, a technique used in database systems to ensure data integrity by recording changes before they are permanent.

- The database uses WAL to make sure no information is lost if the power goes out.
- Implementing a robust WAL protocol is essential for maintaining atomicity and durability in high-concurrency database environments.

Usage: Usually functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the process.

## Examples

- The tennis player won by a WAL after her opponent got injured.
- The tournament bracket showed a WAL for the third round because the visiting team failed to arrive on time.
- While the athlete preferred to earn her place in the finals through competition, she accepted the WAL when her rival withdrew due to a recurring hamstring injury.

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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.