program

/ˈproʊɡræm/
verb
  1. To write instructions for a computer to follow; to create software.
    • She learned to program in Python when she was in high school.
    • They are programming a new app that helps people learn languages.
    • He programmed the robot to move its arm and pick up objects.
  2. To set a device to operate in a particular way or at a particular time.
    • He programmed the remote control to work with the new TV.
    • She programmed the thermostat to lower the temperature at night.
    • I programmed the coffee maker to start brewing at 7 a.m.
  3. To cause a person or animal to behave in a fixed way through training or conditioning.
    • The dog was programmed to respond to hand signals.
    • Children are often programmed by their culture to follow certain rules.
    • Years of advertising have programmed us to want the latest gadgets.
noun
  1. A set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a specific task; software.
    • The computer program crashed when I tried to open the file.
    • This program helps you organize your email inbox.
    • I installed a new photo-editing program on my laptop.
  2. A planned series of events, activities, or performances.
    • The theater printed a program with the names of all the actors.
    • The school has an after-school music program for beginners.
    • We watched a nature program about wolves on television.
  3. A plan or system of actions to achieve a goal.
    • The government launched a new program to reduce pollution.
    • She followed a strict training program to prepare for the marathon.
    • The company started a wellness program to help employees exercise more.