コード

• Reading: コード
• Romaji: koodo
• Pronunciation: /koː.do/

Meaning

Code; cord; chord. A loanword with multiple meanings depending on context.

A katakana noun borrowed from English with three distinct uses: (1) code — as in programming code, area code, or QR code; (2) cord — an electrical cable or extension cord; (3) chord — a musical chord. Context determines the meaning. Common compounds include QRコード, 暗証コード (anshou koodo, PIN code), and 延長コード (enchou koodo, extension cord).

Examples

1. このQRコードを読み取ってください。 Please scan this QR code.
2. パソコンの電源コードが見つからない。 I can't find the power cord for my computer.
3. ギターのコードを練習している。 I'm practicing guitar chords.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, electronics, music

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Borrowed from English 'code,' 'cord,' and 'chord,' all rendered identically in katakana. Each English source word has a different etymology, but they converge in Japanese pronunciation.

Cultural Context

Era: Postwar

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal