Computer Science Glossary

Helping you to get to know to some of computer science-related vocabulary

website

noun

A set of related web pages located under a single domain name, typically produced by a single person or organization.

Example: The company's official website offers a full product catalog.

fr: site web

programming

noun

The process or activity of writing computer programs.

Example: The programming team developed a new app for the company.

fr: programmation

python

noun

A high-level general-purpose programming language.

Example: I decided to learn Python because its simple syntax makes it great for beginners.

fr: python

malware

noun

Software that is specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system.

Example: Installing reputable antivirus software is the best way to protect your device from malware.

fr: logiciels malveillants

algorithm

noun

A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.

Example: The social media platform uses a complex algorithm to determine which posts appear in a user's news feed.

fr: algorithme

syntax

noun

The set of rules defining the structure of a programming language.

Example: Proper syntax in computer programming is required for the code to run correctly.

fr: syntaxe

bug

noun verb

An error in a computer program or system.

Example: The developers are working to fix a bug in the software.

fr: bogue

compiler

noun

A program that converts instructions into a machine-code or lower-level form so that they can be read and executed by a computer.

Example: The software engineer used a compiler to turn the C++ code into an executable file.

fr: compilateur

URL

noun

The address of a web page.

Example: The travel company recently changed its URL.

fr: URL

database

noun

A structured set of data held in a computer, especially one that is accessible in various ways.

Example: We need to enter all new employee information into the company database.

fr: base de données

encryption

noun

The process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.

Example: Without proper encryption, your personal emails could be intercepted and read by anyone.

fr: cryptage

data

noun

Facts and statistics collected together for reference or analysis.

Example: All of the company's financial data was securely backed up.

fr: données

kernel

noun

The most basic level or core of an operating system of a computer, responsible for resource allocation, file management, and security.

Example: The Linux kernel manages the computer's hardware.

fr: noyau

cybersecurity

noun

The state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data, or the measures taken to achieve this.

Example: The company hired an expert in cybersecurity to protect their sensitive data from hackers.

fr: cybersécurité

hack

verb

Use a computer to gain unauthorized access to data in a system.

Example: They hacked into the bank's computer.

fr: hacker, pirater

loop

noun

A structure, series, or process, the end of which is connected to the beginning.

Example: The software crashed because it was stuck in an infinite loop.

fr: boucle

browser

noun

A computer program with a graphical user interface for displaying and navigating between web pages.

Example: Clicking on this link will open a new browser window.

fr: navigateur

software

noun

The programs and other operating information used by a computer.

Example: The company develops educational software for schools.

fr: logiciel

hardware

noun

The machines, wiring, and other physical components of a computer or other electronic system.

Example: Hardware issues can slow down the system.

fr: matériel

firewall

noun

A part of a computer system or network which is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting outward communication.

Example: The computer's firewall stopped a hacker from entering.

fr: pare-feu

This glossary was made with the Virtual Writing Tutor glossary maker and grammar checker.