bork

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To misconfigure, break, or damage, especially a computer or other complex device.

Register: slang

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

The first time I tried the test machine that I got, I borked the configuration pretty badly (I.e., I inverted the interfaces among other things).

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To become broken or damaged, especially of a computer or other complex device.

Register: slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “bork” mean?

To misconfigure, break, or damage, especially a computer or other complex device.

Is “bork” formal or informal?

bork is generally slang.