noun
Uncommon
macro
MAK-roh
Macro (noun) means a short, saved sequence of commands that runs automatically to perform a repeated task. Example: “She wrote a macro in Excel to format the report with one click.”
noun
1
A short, saved sequence of commands that runs automatically to perform a repeated task.
"She wrote a macro in Excel to format the report with one click."
"The keyboard shortcut triggers a macro that saves and emails the file."
"I recorded a macro that copies the totals into a new sheet each Friday."
verb
1
To create or run a macro to automate a task.
"He macroed the whole invoicing process to save time each month."
"She macroed the repeated formatting steps so the task took seconds."
"If you macro this routine, the computer can do it overnight."
How to use macro
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA recorded shortcut that automates a repetitive computer task.
Common pairings
record a macro
run a macro
macro key
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Word forms
- Plural
- macros, macroes
- Third person singular
- macroes, macros
- Past tense
- macroed, macrod, macro'ed, macro'd
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She wrote a _____ in Excel to format the report with one click.
Etymology
Shortened from "macroinstruction", first used in computing around 1959.
Class of 1959
macro joined the language around 1959.
See the full Class of 1959 →
Synonyms
View more →
automation script
shortcut command
Frequently asked questions
What does “macro” mean?
The word “macro” means a short, saved sequence of commands that runs automatically to perform a repeated task. In plain terms, a recorded shortcut that automates a repetitive computer task.
How do you pronounce “macro”?
“Macro” is pronounced MAK-roh (/ˈmæk.ɹoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “macro” in a sentence?
Here is “macro” used in a sentence: “She wrote a macro in Excel to format the report with one click.”
What part of speech is “macro”?
Depending on how it is used, “macro” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “macro” come from?
The word “macro” dates back to around 1959. Shortened from "macroinstruction", first used in computing around 1959.
Is “macro” a common word?
“Macro” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “macro” have?
“Macro” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a short, saved sequence of commands that runs automatically to perform a repeated task.
What is the difference between a macro and a script?
A macro is typically a short, saved sequence of commands recorded to automate a repeated task within a specific application, such as a spreadsheet or word processor. A script is usually written code that can be more flexible and complex, and may run across different programs or systems rather than being tied to one application.
What does it mean to macro something?
To macro something means to create or run a macro in order to automate a task, such as automatically formatting a document or performing repetitive calculations. This use turns the noun macro into a verb describing the action of automation.
Where are macros commonly used?
Macros are commonly used in software like spreadsheets and word processors to automate repetitive tasks, such as formatting data or generating reports. They save time by letting a saved sequence of commands run automatically instead of being performed manually each time.
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