Computer Science Glossary

20 Computer Science terms

Computer Science is the general knowledge of the computer. In other words, it's the study of computers that contains a lot of mathematical, logical, engineering, formulas and a lot of other things. This glossary will help you to understand more in depth this topic by learning some terms of computer science.

Application
noun
An application, or application program, is a software program that runs on your computer. Web browsers, e-mail programs, word processors, games, and utilities are all applications. The word "application" is used because each program has a specific application for the user.
Example: Duolingo is an application that can teach you to speak English.
fr: Application
Computer
noun
An electronic device for storing and processing data, typically in binary form, according to instructions given to it in a variable program.
Example: I play video games in my computer.
fr: Ordinateur
Computer speakers
Noun
Computer speakers, or multimedia speakers, are speakers sold for use with computers, although usually capable of other audio uses.
Example: Turn down the volume of the computer speakers, please.
fr: Enceintes d'ordinateur
Control panel
Noun
The Control Panel is a component of Microsoft Windows that provides the ability to view and change system settings.
Example: I need the control panel to change my computer's language
fr: Panneau de configuration
Data
noun
Facts and statistics collected together for reference or analysis.
Example: there is very little data available.
fr: Les données
File
Noun
A collection of data, programs, etc., stored in a computer's memory or on a storage device under a single identifying name.
Example: Do you want to save this file?
fr: Fichier
Folder
Noun
An icon on a computer screen that can be used to access a directory containing related files or documents.
Example: I have a folder for my old pictures in my computer.
fr: Dossier
Internet
Noun
A global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities, consisting of interconnected networks using standardized communication protocols.
Example: The guide is also available on the internet.
fr: Internet
Keyboard
noun
a panel of keys that operate a computer or typewriter.
Example: My keyboard is broken, I can't write anymore.
fr: Clavier
Link
Noun
A code or instruction which connects one part of a program or an element in a list to another.
Example: I sent you a link of my video.
fr: Lien
Microphone
Noun
an instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy variations which may then be amplified, transmitted, or recorded.
Example: I bought a new microphone to make better quality songs.
fr: Microphone
Monitor
Noun
A television receiver used in a studio to select or verify the picture being broadcast from a particular camera.
Example: The playback can be displayed on an external television screen or monitor.
fr: Moniteur
Mouse
noun
A small handheld device that is dragged across a flat surface to move the cursor on a computer screen, typically having buttons that are pressed to control functions.
Example: Copy the file with a click of the mouse.
fr: Souris
Operating system
Noun
The software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripherals.
Example: My operating system is Windows.
fr: Système d'exploitation
Processor
noun
Central processing unit (CPU), the hardware within a computer that executes a program.
Example: My processor doesn't work anymore, I can't use my computer.
fr: Processeur
Software
Noun
the programs and other operating information used by a computer.
Example: Word by Microsoft is a great program for writing.
fr: Logiciel
Virus
Noun
A piece of code which is capable of copying itself and typically has a detrimental effect, such as corrupting the system or destroying data.
Example: My computer has a virus, it doesn't work anymore.
fr: Virus
Webcam
A video camera that inputs to a computer connected to the internet.
Example: I need to open my webcam when I'm in online class.
fr: Webcam
Website
noun
A set of related web pages located under a single domain name, typically produced by a single person or organization.
Example: Youtube is one of the most popular websites in the world.
fr: Site web
Wifi
Noun
Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices such as computers (laptops and desktops), mobile devices (smart phones and wearables), and other equipment (printers and video cameras) to interface with the Internet.
Example: The Wifi doesn't work, I can't use internet anymore.
fr: Wifi