Dec 29 2005
Before and After Computers
When would you use these words if not for computers?
There are several English words that existed, but that you never heard much in daily conversation before computers became commonplace. Now, in an age where people from every walk of life and every occupation use a computer, some of these have become quite widespread.
avatar
click
default
delete
enter
floppy (soon to be gone?)
icon
queue
scroll
Other English words (or phrases) existed and were often heard before computers became commonplace. However, the Information Technology field has virtually taken over many of these, to the point that it’s hard not to think of computers when they’re spoken or written.
back up
directory
disk
drive
driver
file
flash
folder
form
format
hardware
keyboard
library
menu
monitor
mouse
network
notebook
on line
program
save
shortcut
Spam
spreadsheet
submit
table
user
web
I’m sure there are lots more I haven’t listed here.
PC World’s editors choose their 50 Greatest Gadgets of the Past 50 Years, with the 1979 Sony Walkman edging out the Apple iPod and the TiVo for top honors. There’s an interesting variety of things listed. Thanks to Dave for the link.
Also worth mentioning is that I was down for the count for 48 hours with a stomach virus. I didn’t even think of looking at a computer during that time. Glad to be back.
‘floppy’ is definitely on the way out. At least, um, in regards to its more technical definition.
Glad to hear you’re feeling better. You didn’t even THINK of looking at a computer?! Man… you musta been ill!
Glad to see you back Mark.
Yeah, I was thinking of words that have come into being because of computers.. and also some of the things we might not have if not for computers (the list is endless).
Have a Happy New Years Mark!