programming

1 of 2

noun

pro·​gram·​ming ˈprō-ˌgra-miŋ How to pronounce programming (audio)
-grə-
variants or less commonly programing
Synonyms of programmingnext
1
: the planning, scheduling, or performing of a program
2
a
: the process of instructing or learning by means of an instructional program
b
: the process of preparing an instructional program for a device (such as a computer)

programming

2 of 2

present participle of program entry 2

Examples of programming in a Sentence

Noun The news conference interrupted regular television programming.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
In the new role, Hodgkinson will be responsible for leading the event’s artistic and creative strategy and public programming. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 26 Aug. 2026 The mainly movie channel ventured into original programming with the tale of a Thracian soldier who is condemned to fight in Rome's gladiatorial arenas, only to become a champion and vow to bring down the Empire. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 25 Aug. 2026 Computer science While there is already a requirement in Connecticut schools to provide instruction in computer programming, a new law adds instruction in computer science that includes artificial intelligence and other technologies. — Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 25 Aug. 2026 There are now dozens of different versions of the game, and each differs in its internal programming. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for programming

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of programming was in 1896

Phrases Containing programming

Rhymes for programming

See All Rhymes for programming

Browse Nearby Words

programmer
programming
programming language
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Programming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/programming. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

programming

noun
pro·​gram·​ming
variants also programing
ˈprō-ˌgram-iŋ How to pronounce programming (audio)
-grə-miŋ
1
: the planning, scheduling, or performing of a program
advocates less violence in television programming
2
: the design and production of computer programs

More from Merriam-Webster on programming

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for programming

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about programming

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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