Skip to main content
programmable

programmable

8 3.8
Can be set to do tasks by a computer or by instructions
  • adjective
  • /ˈprɒɡræməbəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : programable
  • Many people install a programmable thermostat to control their home's temperature efficiently.
  • programmable controller
  • programmable logic
  • programmable thermostat

In the last couple of years, there's been programmable video game cards.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • This crockpot has a digital programmable interface.

  • All boards include eight channels of digital I/O, individually programmable as input or output.

    Academic text (1994)
  • I do wish though that all of them were programmable because a guy like me might not need support.

  • Now you still try to make it programmable, but the AI field is changing really fast.

  • The first of its kind, programmable AI.

  • It's compact, it's programmable, it's super portable.

  • For example, many people put programmable thermostats in their house.

  • The entire system is run by a fully automatic, programmable logic controller.

    Academic text (1998)
  • Currently, several digitally controlled, programmable hearing aids are available, incorporating two or three independent channels.

    Academic text (1993)
  • This new washing machine has a programmable setting that allows you to choose different wash cycles.

Synonyms

customizable
vsprogrammable
  • US
9 4.1

You can change it to suit your needs or tastes

is controlled by a computer or instructions rather than by personal tailoring
configurable
vsprogrammable
3 4.6

Able to be changed or set up to match a person's needs

is controlled by a computer or instructions rather than by manual setup
parameterizable
vsprogrammable
  • Specialized
7.9

Can be changed by setting options

is controlled by a computer or explicit instructions rather than only parameter changes

Antonyms

nonprogrammable
  • Specialized
7.2

You cannot set it to work automatically

Compounds

A chip you clear with ultraviolet light and then write new information on it

How Programmable

automatable
  • Specialized
6.5
programmable
  • Specialized
8 3.8
configurable
3 4.6
fixed
1.8

Surface Forms

programmable positive

Morphology

programmable = program (transparent) = program + able

Clearly formed from the verb 'program' + the productive adjective-forming suffix '-able', meaning 'capable of being programmed'.

Etymology

Programmable comes from program, meaning a 'written plan' or 'list of instructions', and the ending -able, which means 'can be'. So, something programmable is something that 'can follow a plan' or 'be set' with instructions, like a coffee maker or a robot.