microcode

noun

mi·​cro·​code ˈmī-krə-ˌkōd How to pronounce microcode (audio)
: the microinstructions especially of a microprocessor

Examples of microcode in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web As usual, the microcode updates will be available from device or motherboard manufacturers. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 14 Nov. 2023 By Monday morning, the pair had written the microcode programs to produce results that satisfied Mr. Jobs. IEEE Spectrum, 2 July 2023 The key may also allow parties other than Intel—say a malicious hacker or a hobbyist—to update chips with their own microcode, although that customized version wouldn’t survive a reboot. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 28 Dec. 2020 The remainder of Intel's microcode guidance document shows just a few chip architectures waiting for patches, including the remainder of the Arrandale and Clarkdale families. Mark Hachman, PCWorld, 9 Mar. 2018 In response, Intel has released a microcode and BIOS updates that mitigate attacks by locking voltage to the default settings. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 10 Dec. 2019 The fix doesn't require a microcode update from computer manufacturers. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 6 Aug. 2019 For other affected products, mitigation is available through microcode updates, coupled with corresponding updates to operating system and hypervisor software that are available starting today. Gordon Mah Ung, PCWorld, 15 May 2019 Presently, the only way to install the microcode is to install a system firmware that includes the updates. Peter Bright, Ars Technica, 11 Apr. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'microcode.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microcode was in 1958

Dictionary Entries Near microcode

Cite this Entry

“Microcode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microcode. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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