reserved word: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumTechnical (Computing/Programming)
Quick answer
What does “reserved word” mean?
A sequence of characters in a programming language that has a fixed meaning and cannot be used as an identifier (e.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A sequence of characters in a programming language that has a fixed meaning and cannot be used as an identifier (e.g., for a variable or function).
In computing, a keyword or token that is syntactically reserved for use by the language itself, preventing programmers from using it for naming their own program elements. The specific list varies between programming languages.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling conventions for related terms may apply (e.g., programme/program).
Connotations
Identical technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally common in both technical communities.
Grammar
How to Use “reserved word” in a Sentence
'for' + language (reserved word for Python)'in' + language (reserved word in Java)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in general business contexts.
Academic
Used in computer science textbooks, papers, and lectures.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Core terminology in software development, programming tutorials, and technical documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reserved word”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “reserved word”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reserved word”
- Using 'reserved word' to refer to any technical term in computing, rather than its specific syntactic role.
- Confusing it with 'built-in function' or 'library name', which are not necessarily reserved.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In many contexts, yes, they are used interchangeably. However, some languages make a subtle distinction where all reserved words are keywords, but not all keywords (e.g., predefined identifiers like 'null' in some languages) are technically 'reserved' from use.
Virtually all widely-used, statically-typed or common dynamic languages (like C, Java, Python, JavaScript) have a set of reserved words. Some esoteric or minimal languages may not.
Yes, it is specific to each language and its version. New versions of a language may add new reserved words (e.g., 'await' and 'async' in newer JavaScript), which can break older code that uses those words as identifiers.
You must choose a different, non-reserved name. Common strategies include using a synonym, adding a prefix or suffix (e.g., 'class_' instead of 'class'), or using slightly different spelling if the language allows (though this is not recommended for clarity).
A sequence of characters in a programming language that has a fixed meaning and cannot be used as an identifier (e.
Reserved word is usually technical (computing/programming) in register.
Reserved word: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˈzɜːvd wɜːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˈzɝvd wɝːd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'RESERVED' parking spot at an office building. Only the person it's reserved for can park there. A 'reserved word' is a spot in the programming language's vocabulary that only the language itself can use.
Conceptual Metaphor
WORDS AS PROPERTY: The programming language 'owns' certain words, reserving them for its own use, much like a landlord reserves a private room.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary consequence of using a reserved word in your code?