Bug

Definition

Bug can refer to an insect or a small arthropod, as well as a flaw or error in a system, especially in software. It may also describe a listening device used for surveillance or a temporary enthusiasm or obsession.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bʌɡ/
• Respelling: buhg

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bʌɡ/
• Respelling: buhg

The pronunciation of "bug" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "bug" originated in Middle English as "bugge," meaning "scarecrow" or "frightening thing." Its use to describe insects began in the 17th century. The term was later adopted in technology to refer to malfunctions, famously noted as a computer "bug" when a moth was found causing issues in early computers.

Derivatives

• Buggy (adjective)
• Debug (verb)
• Bugged (adjective)
• Bugging (verb)
• Debugger (noun)

Synonyms

• Insect (for insect meaning)
• Error (for software meaning)
• Glitch (for technical issue meaning)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "bug" is used in multiple contexts. In everyday language, it commonly refers to insects or small creatures. In technology, it describes a flaw or malfunction in software or systems, such as coding errors that affect functionality. In surveillance, it refers to a hidden listening device used to monitor conversations. Additionally, "to bug" can mean to annoy or irritate someone, or to install a listening device.

Related Terms

• Insect: A small, often winged arthropod.
• Debugging: The process of identifying and removing errors from software.
• Surveillance: The monitoring of behavior or information for security purposes.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An insect or small arthropod: Commonly used to describe various small creatures, particularly those considered pests.
  • Example: "There were several bugs in the garden."
• A flaw or error in software or systems: Refers to issues in programming or design that cause malfunctions.
  • Example: "The new app update fixed several bugs."
• A hidden listening device for surveillance: Describes a device used to monitor conversations or sounds in a specific area.
  • Example: "The room was swept for bugs before the meeting."
• A temporary enthusiasm or obsession: Refers to a sudden, often intense interest in a particular activity.
  • Example: "She caught the travel bug after her first trip abroad."

Verb

• To install a listening device: Refers to the act of placing a device for surveillance or monitoring.
  • Example: "They bugged the office as part of the investigation."
• To annoy or bother someone: Used informally to describe irritating or pestering someone.
  • Example: "It really bugs me when people are late."