glitch

[glich]

noun

1. a defect or malfunction in a machine or plan.

2. Computers.,  any error, malfunction, or problem.

3. a brief or sudden interruption or surge in voltage in an electric circuit.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause a glitch in.

   an accident that glitched our plans.

glitch

/ ɡlɪtʃ /

noun

1. a sudden instance of malfunctioning or irregularity in an electronic system

2. a change in the rotation rate of a pulsar

Word History and Origins

Origin of glitch¹

First recorded in 1960–65; perhaps from Yiddish glitsh “slippery area”; compare glitshn, German glitschen “to slip, slide”

Word History and Origins

Origin of glitch¹

C20: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

The plot of “Heart the Lover” hinges on the sort of surprises and communication glitches that were more prevalent before smartphones enabled constant connectivity.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A glitch that gave investors an early peek at downbeat news about Humana is turning out to be a positive for shares of the health insurer and its rivals.

Read more on Barron's

Instead, officers contacted the company to let them know about the “glitch,” they said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But one man’s technical glitch is another man’s conspiracy theory, as Watters showed Tuesday on Fox News’ talk show “The Five.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The issues have been building online as disgruntled customers take to social media to complain about the service - with many pointing out glitches and issues.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• bug 
• defect 
• flaw 
• hitch 
• malfunction 
• mishap 
• problem 
• setback 
• snafu 
• snag