1. Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code: This is the most common meaning, referring to a family of high-level programming languages designed to be easy to learn and use. It was particularly popular in the 1970s and 80s for personal computers and home computers.
2. Basic: This is the more general meaning, referring to something simple, fundamental, or essential. For example, "The basic principles of democracy are freedom and equality."
3. Base: In some contexts, "BASIC" can be used as a shorthand for "base." For example, "The building's basic structure is made of concrete."
4. Basic: This can also be used as an adjective to describe something as essential or fundamental. For example, "We need to make sure we have the basic necessities like food and water."
To understand the intended meaning of "BASIC," you need to consider the context in which it is used.