debug

1. (computer science) To search for and eliminate malfunctioning elements or errors in something, especially a computer program or machinery.Examples: "It ranged from the pre-design development of essential components, through the stage of type test and flight test and "debugging" right through to later development of the engine to higher powers and efficiency."; "It debugs all program errors, including those that are hardware initiated."; "Additionally, it's up to you to remember to remove this cron entry when you've debugged the firewall."

2. (electronics) To remove a hidden electronic surveillance device from (somewhere).Examples: "Typical fees: $75 to check a particular telephone, $125 to debug one room, $500 to debug a suite of offices— all plus expenses and transportation."; "It conducts background investigations of new CIA employees and CIA contractors, administers polygraph tests to employees and agents, debugs offices at Langley and overseas stations, patrols the buildings and grounds, protects the director and other key CIA officials, and investigates security problems."; "It is good to acquire information about how to perform the debugging operation and the type of tools that will be used, from which you may already have an idea of the technical and instrumental skills, having acquired a plenty of technical information after reading this chapter."

3. (US) To remove insects from (somewhere), especially lice.Examples: "Mr. Moses started out his garden this year with only two toads. As they were differently marked, they soon became known as "Henry" and "Frank." Henry was strong in the pursuit of "ants." Every morning he is seen perched on his favorite hill "anting" for breakfast. Frank's occupation is that of debugging the roses and beating up the paths for miscellaneous insects."; "You can debug yourself at home with various over-the-counter medications."; "If you find nits, it's time for some serious debugging."Synonyms: delouseUS