hacker
/ˈhækər/
NOUN
1. An expert in computer programming and problem-solving
A person skilled in programming and using computers creatively to solve technical problems, develop software, or explore computer systems.
1.1. Skilled computer programmer
A person with strong programming skills who develops software, writes code, and solves complex technical problems.
Synonyms
- programmer
- computer programmer
- systems programmer
- computerist
Antonyms
- computerphobe
- technophobe
Examples
- The company hired an experienced hacker to develop its new software platform.
- The hacker solved the programming problem by creating an efficient algorithm.
Related Words
- coder
- software developer
- systems engineer
- application programmer
- computer architect
- systems analyst
1.2. Creative technology enthusiast
A technically curious person who enjoys exploring computer systems, experimenting with technology, and finding unconventional solutions.
Synonyms
- geek
- techie
- technophile
- computer jock
- cyberpunk
Antonyms
- computerphobe
- technophobe
Examples
- The young hacker spent weekends experimenting with computer hardware and software.
- As a technology enthusiast, the hacker enjoyed discovering new ways to use old devices.
Related Words
- gearhead
- computer enthusiast
- technology enthusiast
- tinkerer
- innovator
NOUN
2. A person who gains unauthorized access to computer systems
A person who uses computer skills to access data, networks, or systems without permission, sometimes to steal information, disrupt operations, or carry out malicious attacks.
2.1. Malicious computer intruder
A person who breaks into computer systems or networks without authorization, often to steal data, damage systems, or disrupt services.
Synonyms
- cracker
- cybercriminal
- intruder
- attacker
Examples
- The notorious hacker stole confidential information from the company's database.
- Police arrested a hacker suspected of breaking into several government networks.
Related Words
- phisher
- cyberattack
- data breach
- malware
- unauthorized access
- security vulnerability
2.2. Person who exploits computer security weaknesses
Someone who identifies and exploits vulnerabilities in computer systems, websites, or online accounts to gain unauthorized access.
Synonyms
- cracker
- cybercriminal
- intruder
Examples
- The hacker exploited an unpatched vulnerability to access the company's server.
- Investigators traced the attack to a hacker who had compromised several online accounts.
Related Words
- exploit developer
- penetration testing
- vulnerability researcher
- security breach
- phishing
NOUN
3. A professional who tests computer security
A person who uses technical expertise to identify security weaknesses in computer systems and networks, usually with authorization, to help prevent cyberattacks.
3.1. Ethical hacking and security testing
A cybersecurity professional who tests systems with permission to discover vulnerabilities and improve their security.
Synonyms
- penetration tester
- security tester
- ethical hacker
Examples
- The company employed an ethical hacker to test its cybersecurity defenses.
- The hacker identified several weaknesses before malicious attackers could exploit them.
Related Words
- cybersecurity specialist
- security analyst
- information security professional
- vulnerability assessor
- network security engineer
NOUN
4. An inexperienced or unskilled person
A person who lacks experience, knowledge, or skill in a particular activity, especially a sport such as golf or tennis.
4.1. Beginner or novice
Someone who is new to an activity and has not yet developed the necessary skills or experience.
Synonyms
- amateur
- beginner
- novice
- rookie
- greenhorn
- neophyte
- newcomer
- tyro
- tenderfoot
Antonyms
Examples
- As a golf hacker, he still struggled to hit the ball consistently.
- The tennis hacker practiced every weekend to improve his technique.
- The experienced players patiently helped the beginner learn the game.
Related Words
4.2. Unskilled or amateur performer
A person who performs an activity poorly because of limited ability, training, or practical experience.
Synonyms
- amateur
- inexpert
- jackleg
- trifler
- bungler
Antonyms
Examples
- The reviewer dismissed the inexperienced player as a hacker.
- His opponents considered him a mere hacker rather than a serious competitor.
Related Words
- amateurish
- incompetent
- unskilled
- untrained
- inexperienced
NOUN
5. A person who operates a taxicab
A person whose occupation is driving a taxicab and transporting passengers for payment.
5.1. Taxi driver
Someone who drives a taxicab and carries passengers to their destinations in exchange for a fare.
Synonyms
- taxi driver
- cabdriver
- cabman
- hackney driver
Examples
- The hacker knew every shortcut through the busy city streets.
- The taxi hacker picked up passengers outside the railway station.
Related Words
NOUN
6. A tool or device used for hacking
An implement or device designed or used to perform a hacking action, such as cutting, chopping, or striking.
6.1. Cutting or harvesting tool
A tool used for cutting or digging, including specialized fork-shaped implements used to harvest root vegetables.
Synonyms
- cutting tool
- harvesting tool
Examples
- The farmer used a specialized hacker to loosen the soil around the root vegetables.
Related Words
- fork
- hoe
- mattock
- pickaxe
- harvesting equipment