Phrase guide

bug compatibility

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

The compatibility between two systems down to the specific bugs exhibited by the implementations.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: uncountable

Topics: computing, engineering, mathematics, natural-sciences, physical-sciences, programming, sciences, software

Examples

  • In some types of software with specific needs, it is necessary to replicate even the bugs of previous versions of the software to maintain bug compatibility.
  • Hyrum's law tells us that a failure to maintain bug compatibility in newer editions will surely lead to breakages, even if the API never promised those behaviors to begin with.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From bug (“logical error”) + compatibility or bug compatible + -ity.