hackers
/ˈhækərz/
NOUN
1. People skilled in computer programming and problem-solving
People who are expert at programming and solving problems with computers, often by developing software, exploring systems, or finding creative technical solutions.
1.1. Computer programming experts
People with strong programming skills who write code, develop software, and solve complex problems using computers.
Synonyms
- computerists
- programmers
- coders
Antonyms
- computerphobes
- technophobes
Examples
- The hackers developed a lightweight operating system for older computers.
- Experienced hackers collaborated to solve the complex programming challenge.
Related Words
- software developers
- systems programmers
- computer engineers
- software architects
- systems analysts
1.2. Technology enthusiasts and computer experts
People who are deeply interested in computers and technology and enjoy experimenting with hardware, software, and technical systems.
Synonyms
- geeks
- techies
- technophiles
- cyberpunks
- gearheads
Antonyms
- computerphobes
- technophobes
Examples
- The hackers gathered at the technology convention to demonstrate their latest projects.
- Online communities allow computer hackers to exchange ideas and technical knowledge.
Related Words
- technocrats
- computer enthusiasts
- tinkerers
- innovators
- technology specialists
NOUN
2. People who gain unauthorized access to computer systems
People who use computers to gain unauthorized access to data or systems, or to carry out malicious attacks.
2.1. Malicious computer intruders
People who break into computer systems or networks without permission, often to steal information, disrupt services, or cause damage.
Synonyms
- crackers
- cybercriminals
- intruders
- attackers
Examples
- The cybersecurity team thwarted the attempted breach by skilled hackers.
- The company strengthened its defenses after hackers stole confidential customer information.
- Hackers constantly develop new tactics to bypass security measures.
Related Words
- cyberattacks
- data breaches
- malware
- security vulnerabilities
- unauthorized access
2.2. People who carry out phishing attacks
People who use deceptive messages or fraudulent websites to trick others into revealing passwords, financial information, or other sensitive data.
Synonyms
- phishers
- cybercriminals
- online scammers
Examples
- The hackers sent fraudulent emails to steal employees' login credentials.
- Security researchers identified a group of hackers targeting online banking customers.
Related Words
- phishing
- identity theft
- fraud
- social engineering
- credential theft
NOUN
3. Computer security professionals
People who use their technical knowledge to identify security weaknesses in computer systems and networks, usually with authorization, to improve protection against cyberattacks.
3.1. Ethical hacking and penetration testing
Professionals who conduct authorized security tests to discover vulnerabilities before malicious attackers can exploit them.
Synonyms
- ethical hackers
- penetration testers
- security testers
Examples
- Ethical hackers were hired to conduct penetration testing on the company's network.
- The organization relies on experienced hackers to identify weaknesses in its security systems.
Related Words
- cybersecurity professionals
- security analysts
- vulnerability researchers
- information security specialists
- network security engineers
NOUN
4. People who are inexperienced or unskilled at an activity
People who lack experience or ability in a particular activity, especially a sport such as golf or tennis.
4.1. Beginners and inexperienced participants
People who are new to an activity and have not yet developed the skills or experience needed to perform it well.
Synonyms
- amateurs
- beginners
- freshmen
- greenhorns
- inexperts
- jacklegs
- learners
- neophytes
- newcomers
- novices
- rookies
- tenderfeet
- tenderfoots
- tyros
Antonyms
- aces
- adepts
- crackajacks
- crackerjacks
- experts
- masters
- old hands
- old-timers
- past masters
- sharks
- sharps
- veterans
- vets
- virtuosi
- virtuosos
- whizzes
- wizards
Examples
- The experienced golfers patiently helped the hackers improve their swings.
- The tournament included several beginners who were still learning the game.
- Even the most enthusiastic hackers struggled with the difficult course.
Related Words
- trainees
- apprentices
- students
- learners
- inexperienced participants
4.2. Unskilled or amateur performers
People who perform an activity poorly because they lack the necessary skill, training, or practical experience.
Synonyms
- amateurs
- inexperts
- jacklegs
- triflers
- hack writers
Antonyms
Examples
- The professional players dismissed their opponents as inexperienced hackers.
- The critics considered the performers little more than amateurs.
Related Words
- bunglers
- incompetent performers
- untrained workers
- unskilled practitioners
NOUN
5. People who operate taxicabs
People whose occupation is driving taxicabs and transporting passengers in exchange for payment.
5.1. Taxi drivers
People who drive hired vehicles and carry passengers to their destinations for a fare.
Synonyms
- taxi drivers
- cabdrivers
- cabmen
- hackney drivers
Examples
- The hackers knew every shortcut through the busy city streets.
- Several hackers waited outside the railway station for passengers.
- The taxi drivers coordinated their shifts at the airport.
Related Words
- chauffeurs
- taxicabs
- passengers
- fares
- transportation
NOUN
6. Tools or devices used for hacking
Implements or devices used to perform a hacking action, such as cutting, chopping, or harvesting.
6.1. Fork-shaped harvesting tools
Specialized fork-shaped implements used to loosen soil and harvest root vegetables.
Synonyms
- harvesting tools
- root vegetable forks
Examples
- The farmers used specialized hackers to loosen the soil around root vegetables.
- The harvesting tools made it easier to remove the vegetables without damaging them.
Related Words
- garden forks
- digging tools
- hoes
- mattocks
- agricultural implements