Tech and Money Terms Explained

Every subject has its own shorthand, and our sections cover several at once. This glossary collects the terms that appear most often in our guides, with a short meaning and a pointer to the article where each one matters. The definitions are deliberately simple; for anything with legal or financial consequences, check the details where you live and get independent advice.

Screens and streaming

• IPTV — channels and programmes streamed through your broadband line rather than received by aerial, dish or cable. Our step-by-step set-up guide shows how it fits into a living room.
• EPG — the electronic programme guide, the on-screen grid of what is on and when.
• M3U playlist — a plain text file listing stream addresses that a player app reads as channels. See How to Build Your Own IPTV Playlist.
• Catch-up TV — programmes kept available for a limited time after they air.
• Digital signage — screens in shops, receptions or windows that show scheduled messages. Explained in Using Digital Signage Displays.

Software and AI

• SVG — a vector image format that stays sharp at any size, popular for logos and icons.
• RAG (retrieval-augmented generation) — an AI technique that looks up relevant documents before writing an answer. Covered in our RAG explainer.
• URL parameter — the part of a web address after a question mark, often used for filters or tracking.

Phones and travel

• eSIM — a SIM built into a device and activated by download. See What Is an eSIM?
• Roaming — using your home mobile plan on a network in another country, often at extra cost.
• Dual voltage — a charger or appliance that works on both lower and higher mains supplies; the label usually reads 100–240V.

Cars

• Fault code — the stored code an engine computer logs when it switches on the check engine light.
• Rolling resistance — the energy a tyre loses as it flexes against the road.
• Tyre rotation — moving wheels to different corners so the set wears evenly. See How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

Legal and money

• Power of attorney — a document letting a trusted person act for someone else. Explained in our family guide.
• Notary — an official who verifies identity and witnesses signatures; in civil-law countries, a lawyer who authenticates deeds.
• Apostille — a certificate that lets a public document be recognised in another participating country.
• Bridging loan — short-term borrowing used to cover a gap, often between buying and selling property.
• Compound interest — interest earned on earlier interest as well as the original sum.
• Rug pull — a crypto scheme where the creators drain a token's funds and disappear.

Missing a word? Tell us which term tripped you up and where you saw it, and we will consider adding it.