verb

debug

/diːˈbʌɡ/ · say it: dee·BUG

to find and fix errors in software

In Technology & Computing

In more detail

1. (verb) to find and remove errors or problems from a computer program or system

2. (verb) to remove hidden listening devices from a place

Examples

1. The programmer spent hours debugging the code to fix the crash.
2. The company hired experts to debug their office before discussing confidential contracts.

How to use debug

Debug is used in both computing and security contexts. In computing, it refers to identifying and fixing errors in software or code, often involving systematic testing and analysis. In security, it means removing surveillance devices from a location. The computing sense is far more common in everyday usage and professional discourse.

Common phrases

debug the code
debug a program
debug the system
debug the software
debugging tools
debugging process

Synonyms

fix · troubleshoot · correct · resolve · patch

Word family

debugged · debugging · debugger

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'debug' with an object that is not a program or system (e.g., 'debug the problem' instead of 'fix the problem'), though the extended metaphorical use is becoming more accepted in informal speech.

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