trojan
word
Definition
A 'trojan' is a type of computer program that looks harmless but actually harms your computer, often by stealing information. It can also refer to the ancient Greek myth of the 'Trojan Horse', used to trick and invade the city of Troy.
Usage & Nuances
Most commonly, 'trojan' refers to malware ('trojan virus', 'trojan horse') in technology contexts; rarely used in daily conversation unless discussing computers or ancient history. Don't confuse with the noun 'Trojan' as a person from Troy. In computers, a 'trojan' does not replicate itself (unlike a virus).
Example Sentences
She explained the story of the trojan horse in history class.
natural
A trojan can steal your passwords.
basic
Be careful not to download a trojan.
basic
The Greeks used a wooden trojan to enter Troy.
basic
My laptop was acting strange—I think it got a trojan from a fake email.
natural
If your files suddenly disappear, you might have a trojan problem.
natural