Continuously updated · AI Dictionary
The language of AI,
clearly defined.
A field guide to the words changing how we build, work and think—from token and transformer to AI agents and vibe coding.
537 terms
10 topics
1847–2026 timeline
Built as a living reference
Clear words. Useful context.
01
Plain English firstThe definition comes before the jargon.
02
Usage over hypeEstablished meanings are separated from new or informal ones.
03
Show the trailSources appear on entries as they are reviewed.
Latest update · October 2026
New in the AI Dictionary
Fresh language for the newest shifts in AI, explained without the jargon.
rules file backdoor
a prompt-injection and software-supply-chain attack in which malicious instructions are placed in a rule, configuration, or repository file that an AI coding assistant automatically reads, causing the assistant to change code, run commands, expose secrets, or weaken safeguards without the developer's intended authorization
Read definition ↗
AI divide
the widening gap between people, organizations, or countries that can access, use, build, and influence advanced AI systems and those limited by a lack of computing infrastructure, data, skills, money, connectivity, language support, or decision-making power
Read definition ↗
AI bloc
a group of countries that align around a shared artificial-intelligence technology stack, supply chain, governance approach, or strategic leader, often through access to chips, cloud infrastructure, models, investment, and policy partnerships
Read definition ↗
helpful agent problem
the safety problem in which an AI agent tries to complete a legitimate task or be useful but oversteps a boundary, bypasses an intended control, or causes harm without having a malicious objective
Read definition ↗