Machine code is the lowest-level programming language that a computer can understand, consisting of binary instructions executed directly by the CPU. It's the only language the computer can process without translation, but it's a real pain for humans to read and write.

How to use it in a sentence

I tried to impress my Tinder date by telling her I could write machine code in my sleep, but she just looked at me like I was a pretentious douchebag. My coworker keeps bragging about how he can hand-optimize machine code better than the compiler, but I'm pretty sure he's just trying to compensate for his lack of social skills.

If you actually want to learn more...

• Understanding Machine Code: This article dives into the nitty-gritty details of machine code, explaining how it works and why it's the foundation of all software.

• Writing Machine Code for Fun (and Profit?): If you're feeling masochistic, this guide will teach you how to write your own machine code. Just don't expect to be productive anytime soon.

• The History of Machine Code: Take a trip down memory lane and learn about the fascinating history of machine code, from the early days of computing to the present.

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