Terminology: Simple Definitions for Media, Tech and Culture

Words in media and tech get tossed around like memes. If you want quick, clear meanings without fluff, you're in the right place. This page explains terms you'll see in articles about social media, broadcasting, culture, and everyday tech so you stop guessing and start using them with confidence.

Here are short, useful definitions and examples you can use in notes, posts, or conversations. I kept each explanation practical so you can read fast and remember more.

Common Terms

Algorithm: The rules a platform uses to decide what shows up in your feed. Example: a social app may prioritize posts you interact with most.

Engagement: Any action like a like, comment, share, or save. Higher engagement means content matters to people.

Impression: How many times content was displayed, even if not clicked. Good for reach numbers but not a measure of interest.

Data dump: A large, unstructured transfer of information. Use it when files or logs are exported without cleanup.

Streaming: Delivering audio or video over the internet in real time. Think Netflix, YouTube, or live game streams.

Moderation: The process of reviewing user content and removing spam or harmful posts. Moderation keeps communities usable.

Viral: When content spreads fast because many people share or talk about it. Viral content often has a strong emotional hook.

Inbox vs feed: Inbox is direct messages; feed is the public stream of posts. Treat them differently in tone and privacy.

Use Terms Right

Pick the right term for what you mean. If you talk about reach, say impressions. If you mean interaction, say engagement. Precision makes reports and posts clearer and easier to act on.

Use examples when teaching others. Instead of defining moderation, show a before and after post that was removed. Instead of saying streaming is popular, point to a short clip and note view numbers.

Avoid jargon when talking with non-experts. Swap terms like impressions or CAC for simple phrases like 'how many people saw it' or 'cost per customer.' That helps your team and audience follow.

When writing posts, add a one-line parenthetical for tricky terms. For example: engagement (likes, comments, shares). Small clarifications cut questions and improve trust.

Want a short cheat sheet? Keep a list of five terms you use most and their plain-English definitions. Update it as platforms change; algorithms and features shift fast.

If you work with numbers, always pair a term with a metric. Say 'engagement rate' with the percent, or 'reach' with total unique viewers. Numbers make terms actionable.

Want help turning your jargon into clear copy? I can help rewrite posts, labels, or reports so readers understand fast.

Use this page as a quick reference. Bookmark it, share with teammates, or copy the short definitions into your project docs. Over time you'll notice fewer questions in meetings and clearer decisions. Good terminology saves time and prevents mistakes when you publish or run campaigns.

Keep this list updated monthly with real examples and metrics too.