código
/ˈkodiɡo/masculine
The Spanish word for code (instructions for a computer) is código.
código is a masculine noun used to refer to computer instructions or various types of codes. For example, you can use código fuente to refer to source code or código de barras for a barcode. In cryptography, verbs like codificar, encriptar or criptografiar mean to encode.
Meaning: instructions for a computer (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of código is códigos.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkodiɡo/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often use the verb codificar to mean 'to write computer code'. However, in professional Spanish, it is more natural to use programar when referring to the act of programming.
Did you know?
- The word código is a cognate of 'code', but it originates from the Latin word caudex, which meant the trunk of a tree or a wooden tablet used for writing.
- While English uses 'code' for everything from zip codes to computer scripts, Spanish speakers often use clave specifically for a password or a secret key.
- The verb encriptar is a common way to say 'to encrypt', but it is technically an anglicism derived from the English word 'encrypt' and was once discouraged by linguistic purists.
Examples in context
- Por favor, ingrese el código.Please enter the code.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of código when asking someone to enter a code.Tatoeba #1818221 by leoruilova, translation #7822432 by 100nosewiggles
- Tom cambió el código de acceso.Tom changed the access code.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of código in the context of an access code.Tatoeba #11875567 by Eremon, translation #9916119 by Ergulis
- El código de vestimenta es casual.The dress code is casual.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of código in the phrase 'dress code'.Tatoeba #12182543 by ecorralest101, translation #12183538 by Miktsoanit
- El código de conducta para los empleados de la empresa debe ser respetado en todo momento.The code of conduct for employees must be respected at all times.
- Para acceder a la cuenta, necesitarás ingresar la clave de seguridad.To access the account, you'll need to enter the security code.
- 28 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A programmer explains a bug to his colleague.
- SofíaDaniel, revisé el código ayer.Daniel, I reviewed the code yesterday.
- Daniel¿Encontraste algún error en el código?Did you find any error in the code?
- SofíaSí, el código tiene un problema.Yes, the code has a problem.
- DanielVoy a corregir el código ahora.I am going to fix the code now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “code” translations and entries código, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries código, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
