barcode
UK[ˈbɑːkəʊd]US[ˈbɑːrkoʊd]
n
a pattern of thick and thin parallel lines printed on a product, which can be read by a machine to give information such as its price.
Morpheme Breakdown
bar
code
bar
code
Etymology
the word 'barcode' is a modern english compound, formed in the mid-20th century. it directly combines 'bar', from old english meaning a straight strip, with 'code', from latin 'codex' meaning a system of laws or a book. the term is purely descriptive, logically naming the technology as a 'code' made of 'bars'. this transparent construction reflects the straightforward way english creates new terms for technological inventions by combining existing words with clear, literal meanings.
Analysis
Structure: bar + code
- bar (old english): a long, narrow piece or stripe. in this compound, it refers to the vertical lines.
- code (latin via old french): a system of symbols or signals used to represent information.
Examples
the cashier scanned the barcode to check the price.
most library books have a barcode on the spine for inventory management.
the manufacturer printed a new barcode on the product packaging.