The Inclusive Naming Word Lists v1.0 is now available:

This page and its subpages are available as a single downloadable file in these formats: HTML | OpenDocument (.odt) | JSON formats.

(If you want the entire list of all the words in this release as a single file, use these links instead: HTML, OpenDocument (.odt), or JSON)

PDF and other formats will be added soon.

Word List: Tier 1

Term: master

Definition

In computing, A “master” often refers to the original or main version of an entity.

Related Terms

  • N/A

Usage Context

Recommendation

Adopt immediately.

Recommended Replacements

  • main
  • original
  • source
  • control plane

Unsuitable Replacements

  • N/A

Rationale

While master in and of itself is potentially neutral, the propensity in which it is associated with the term slave in computing makes master on its own guilty by association. Though it is used as a standalone, it’s impossible to remove the association with command and control entirely, and thus we recommend moving away from even singular use.

Term Status

Nill

Supporting Content