code Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a set of rules or principles or laws (especially written ones)
    codification.
  2. noun a coding system used for transmitting messages requiring brevity or secrecy
  3. noun (computer science) the symbolic arrangement of data or instructions in a computer program or the set of such instructions
    computer code.
  4. verb attach a code to
    • Code the pieces with numbers so that you can identify them later
  5. verb convert ordinary language into code
    encipher; encrypt; write in code; cypher; inscribe; cipher.
    • We should encode the message for security reasons

WordNet

Code noun
Etymology
F., fr. L. codex, caudex, the stock or tem of a tree, a board or tablet of wood smeared over with wax, on which the ancients originally wrote; hence, a book, a writting.
Definitions
  1. A body of law, sanctioned by legislation, in which the rules of law to be specifically applied by the courts are set forth in systematic form; a compilation of laws by public authority; a digest. ✍ The collection of laws made by the order of Justinian is sometimes called, by way of eminence. "The Code" Wharton.
  2. Any system of rules or regulations relating to one subject; as, the medical code, a system of rules for the regulation of the professional conduct of physicians; the naval code, a system of rules for making communications at sea means of signals.

Webster 1913