Programme

'Programme' is the British spelling for the noun 'program'. However, the 'program' spelling is the generally accepted form when referring to computer programs.

As a verb, the situation is slightly unclear. My 1995 Oxford dictionary lists 'program' as both a noun ("series of coded instructions for a computer") and a verb ("instruct a computer by means of (a program)"). However, 'programme' is listed only as a noun.

Although several web pages contradict this (stating that 'programme' can be a verb), I trust my dictionary more. If 'program' became verbed as a result of its use in computing, this would make the case even stronger.

At any rate, I would....

• Watch a television programme
• Write a computer program, and
• Program my computer or video ('Programme my video' just looks strange...)

Dictionary: Oxford Quick Reference Dictionary & Thesaurus

Also see: http://www.oup.co.uk/

This was originally intended to be a brief, informative node, not a bloody linguistic investigation.

Pro"gramme (?), n. [L. programma a public proclamation, manifesto, Gr. , fr. to write before or in public; before, forth + to write; cf. F. programme. See Graphic.]

That which is written or printed as a public notice or advertisement; a scheme; a prospectus; especially, a brief outline or explanation of the order to be pursued, or the subjects embraced, in any public exercise, performance, or entertainment; a preliminary sketch.

Programme music Mus., descriptive instrumental music which requires an argument or programme to explain the meaning of its several movements.

© Webster 1913.