Origin: Latin suffix -able
Definition, synonyms and related words
A calculator that allows the user to write programs.
"The programmable calculator allowed students to write custom sequences of operations directly into its memory."
In plain English: A programmable thing is an object that you can give specific instructions to so it does exactly what you tell it to do.
"In this specific jargon, calling yourself a programmable means you are flexible enough to learn any coding language on demand."
Capable of being programmed.
"The modern washing machine is programmable, allowing users to set custom wash cycles and times via a digital display."
In plain English: Programmable means something that you can set up to do specific tasks automatically by giving it instructions.
"My watch is programmable, so I can set different alarms for each day of the week."
Usage: Use this adjective to describe any device or system, such as computers or calculators, that can be customized with specific instructions by a user. It distinguishes flexible tools from those designed for only one fixed function.
The word programmable comes from combining program with the suffix -able. It entered English to describe something capable of being set up or controlled by a specific sequence of instructions.