coding

[ koh-ding ]

noun

1. Computers. the act or process of writing code, or the instructions for a program or piece of software:

   There’s a bit of coding left to do, and then we’ll be ready to beta-test.

   He likes to do the software design, but leaves the actual coding to others.

2. the act or process of expressing a message in words, images, sounds, or any other set of symbols or signs; encoding:

   The secret coding of ship messages hindered rescue efforts during the war.

   In advertising, the coding of your message can make or break your marketing strategy.

3. the act or process of categorizing or identifying a set of things by assigning a code to them:

   Using color coding along with the bin labels will increase the sorting productivity and accuracy of mail clerks.

4. Statistics. the act of transforming a random variable into one that is more convenient for certain types of analysis or for the removal of invalid data.

Word History and Origins

Origin of coding¹

First recorded in 1865–70 originally used for telegraphy; code + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Some newly identified sites actually occur in the coding sequence of the gene that becomes an mRNA.

From Science Daily

A Russian software company has invited a seven-year-old coding prodigy to join its management team, as soon as he is old enough to take up paid employment.

From BBC

Assignments include service dog training, construction work, clerking positions, computer coding, hospice care and janitorial jobs.

From Los Angeles Times

We use experts in behavioral science, facial coding, galvanic skin response, and other subjects and research methods as well.

From Salon

Navarrete, a professor of coding and computer information systems at Cal State Dominguez Hills from Mexico, and Arroyo, a former film critic from Spain, both volunteered at the school’s book fair.

From Los Angeles Times