English
1. (Obsolete) The source code for a program, which may be in
any language, as opposed to the linkable or executable binary
produced from it by a compiler. The idea behind the term is
that to a real hacker, a program written in his favourite
programming language is at least as readable as English.
Usage: mostly by old-time hackers, though recognisable in
context.
2. The official name of the {database} language used by the
{Pick} {operating system}, actually a sort of crufty,
brain-damaged {SQL} with delusions of grandeur. The name
permits {marketroid}s to say "Yes, and you can program our
computers in English!" to ignorant {suit}s without quite
running afoul of the truth-in-advertising laws.
["Exploring the Pick Operating System", J.E. Sisk et al,
Hayden 1986].
[{Jargon File}]