Misnomers in Technology
In this post, we highlight several misnomers in technology to stop believing now. Surprisingly, these confusing terms must have had reason to do so. There are also reasons for why these are considered misnomers. Why so? Let’s dive in.
Popular Misnomers Explained
Don’t worry if you can relate to some of these. We’ve been there before, too! And remember – there is a reason why misnomers exist in the first place!Â
Although some exceptions exist, memory refers to data in RAM (Random Access Memory) and storage refers to data in the hard drive.Â
When it comes to your computer, what do you call it? Do you call it a PC, desktop, or tower? Well, all of these are correct! That is, unless, you are using a Macintosh.
Similar to hard drive storage, cloud storage means that your data can be accessed anywhere. On the other hand, cloud backups are copies of your files and folders that are saved in different intervals.
In general, when referring to slot machines as, “multi-armed bandits,” may seem correct. But, upon physical examination of one, only one lever is present. Alternatively, some people believe that the phrase actually meant multiple one-armed bandits. Nevertheless, trends suggest automated A/B testing are multi-armed bandits.
Non-Technical Misnomers
Have you ever said or heard the phrase, “everything I’ve known is a lie!”? Well, prepare yourself, as the non technical misnomers we’ve listed below may make you feel just like that.
- Chinese checkers isn't a form of checkers, and it's not from China. Surprisingly, it was invented in Germany in 1892 and renamed "Chinese checkers" in 1928 to make it more marketable.
- In the United States, and other countries where cars drive on the right, you are supposed to walk on the left side of the road (facing traffic).
- Both the horned toad and slow worm are species of lizard.
- Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries aren't berries.
- When you hit your funny bone, you're actually hitting your ulnar nerve.
In Conclusion
Did any of these tech misnomers surprise you? If you have a misnomer that you think we’d enjoy, let us know in the comments below.
Resources & Further Reading
James, P. A. (2015, December 15). 28 misleading MISNOMERS Explained. Retrieved March 05, 2021, from https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/61691/28-misleading-misnomers-explained
Lagi, M. (2021, February 18). Misnomers and confusing terms in machine learning. Retrieved March 05, 2021, from https://product.hubspot.com/blog/misnomers-and-confusing-terms-in-machine-learning
Somerville, D. (2018, August 15). Top 3 technology misnomers and misunderstandings explained. Retrieved March 05, 2021, from https://www.absne.com/2018/08/15/top-3-technology-misnomers-and-misunderstandings-explained/