adjective
Common
interpreted
ihn-TUR-prih-tihd
Interpreted (adjective) means Computing: describing a program that is run directly from its source code, line by line, rather than being compiled into a standalone executable first. Example: “Python is an interpreted language, so you can run a script without compiling it.”
adjective
1
Computing: describing a program that is run directly from its source code, line by line, rather than being compiled into a standalone executable first.
"Python is an interpreted language, so you can run a script without compiling it."
"An interpreted program is often slower than a compiled one, but it is easier to test."
"JavaScript is typically an interpreted language that runs inside the browser."
How to use interpreted
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRun straight from its original code rather than turned into a separate compiled file first.
Common pairings
interpreted language
interpreted code
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Python is an _____ language, so you can run a script without compiling it.
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Rhymes for interpreted
See all rhymes for interpreted →Frequently asked questions
What does “interpreted” mean?
The word “interpreted” means computing: describing a program that is run directly from its source code, line by line, rather than being compiled into a standalone executable first. In plain terms, run straight from its original code rather than turned into a separate compiled file first.
How do you pronounce “interpreted”?
“Interpreted” is pronounced ihn-TUR-prih-tihd (/ɪnˈtɝ.pɹɪ.tɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “interpreted” in a sentence?
Here is “interpreted” used in a sentence: “JavaScript is typically an interpreted language that runs inside the browser.”
What part of speech is “interpreted”?
“Interpreted” is an adjective.
Is “interpreted” a common word?
“Interpreted” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between interpreted and compiled languages?
An interpreted language runs its source code directly, line by line, at the time the program is used. A compiled language is first translated into a standalone executable file, which is then run. The main practical trade-off is that interpreted code is usually more portable but slower than compiled code.
Is Python an interpreted language?
Yes, Python is usually described as an interpreted language because its code is executed from source rather than compiled into a standalone executable first. Other commonly interpreted languages include JavaScript, Ruby, and PHP.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of interpreted languages?
Because interpreted languages run source code directly, they are typically easy to test, debug, and move between systems without a separate compile step. The main drawback is speed: interpreted code generally runs slower than equivalent compiled code.
What is the difference between 'interpreted' in computing and in everyday English?
In computing, 'interpreted' describes code that runs directly from its source, line by line. In everyday English, 'interpreted' is the past tense of interpret, meaning explained, translated, or understood in a particular way.
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