Cache is a word with a few related meanings. In computingUsing computers and their systems or programs., it refers to temporaryLasting only for a short time; not permanent. memory used to speed things up. As a verb, it means to store something away for later. As a noun, it can mean a hidden store of valuablesItems that are expensive, important, or worth keeping safe. or supplies.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Pronunciation
AI-generated pronunciation audio (OpenAI).
Accent: General American English
IPA: /kæʃ/
Easy pronunciation: CASH (approximate spelling).
Stress: Stress is on the only syllable.
Computer noun: temporary storage used to speed up access to data.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: uncertain — manual review needed. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Cache Meaning
a small, fast storage area in a computer that helps it work more quickly
Part of speech: noun
Definition: temporary computer memory used to speed up access to data
Example: The browser stores images in cache so pages load faster next time.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- memory cache — A direct technical synonym for the computer sense.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Other Meanings of Cache
Meaning 2
to store something away for later
Part of speech: verb
Definition: to save something and keep it for future use
Example: She cached extra batteries in the car before the winter trip.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- hoard — Can work in this sense, but often suggests keeping too much or not sharing.
- lay away — Used for storing something for later use, though less common in everyday speech.
- squirrel away — A natural informal substitute for saving something secretly or gradually.
- stash — A common informal verb for hiding or storing something for later.
Meaning 3
a hidden collection of valuable things or supplies
Part of speech: noun
Definition: a secret store of valuables, money, or supplies
Example: The explorers found a cache of old coins in the cave.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- hoard — A stored collection kept hidden or saved up.
- stash — A hidden store, often in informal use.
Meaning 4
a secret place where things are hidden and kept
Part of speech: noun
Definition: a hidden storage place for money, supplies, or weapons
Example: They discovered a cache of weapons buried near the barn.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Cache Synonyms
Similar Meaning
- memory cache
to save something and keep it for future use
- squirrel away
- stash
- hoard
- lay away
a secret store of valuables, money, or supplies
- hoard
- stash
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: uncertain — manual review needed. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Common Mistakes
- People sometimes mix up cache with cash. Cache means a hidden store or a computer memory area; cash means money.
- Do not confuse the computing noun with the verb meaning 'to store away for later.'
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: uncertain — manual review needed. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does cache mean in computing?
In computing, cache is a small, fast storage area that keeps data handy so a computer or browser can access it more quickly.
Is cache the same as cash?
No. Cache is a hidden store or a computer memory area, while cash means money.
What is a cache of something?
A cache of something is a hidden store or collection of it, such as a cache of food, weapons, or coins.
What is the verb cache?
As a verb, cache means to store something away for later use, often in a hidden place.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-10-30. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
