Words / B2

dee-KOHD-uh/ˌdiːˈkəʊdə/

A decoder is a device or program that turns coded data back into a usable form: a TV decoder; a decoder box. Encode is the opposite process; decrypt (this batch) is specifically of secret code. Name the decoder in the media spec, then the standard. Mix-up: decoder vs decoy (this batch); recorder; do not write decoder for a remote control.

Meaning

A device or program that turns coded data back into a usable form.

Examples

• “Name the decoder in the media spec, then the standard, not a TV advert.”
• “A barcode decoder featured in the logistics case, which is still a named scan — quote the error rate if given.”

Good to know

a TV / media decoder; decoder box / chip. Opposite: encoder. Close: decrypt (this batch). Trap: decoy / a remote. Media and computing. Turns code into a signal — name the standard.

Near in meaning

encoder (contrast), receiver, descrambler

New