The term “prompt” has multiple meanings depending on the context:
1. **In computing (Web APIs and AI):** A prompt is an instruction or message that requests input from a user or system. For example, JavaScript’s `window.prompt()` method displays a dialog box asking the user to input text and returns what the user typed or null if canceled ([MDN Web Docs](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/API/Window/prompt)). In AI, a prompt is the input text or instructions given to a language model to generate a response ([OpenAI documentation](https://platform.openai.com/docs/guides/prompt-engineering)).
2. **As a verb (general English):** To prompt means to cause or incite someone to take action or say something. For example, a question may prompt someone to reply, or an event may prompt an investigation. It also means to assist someone to remember or say the next word or action, as in acting or reciting ([Merriam-Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prompt), [Cambridge Dictionary](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/prompt)).
3. **As an adjective:** Prompt describes being quick or immediate in action or response, such as a prompt reply or treatment ([Merriam-Webster](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prompt), [Cambridge Dictionary](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/prompt)).
4. **In specialized contexts:**
– “PROMPT Therapy” refers to a specific clinical approach for speech delays or disorders ([Prompt Institute](https://promptinstitute.com/page/Families_What_is_PROMPT)).
– “Prompt Security” is a company specializing in AI security for generative AI applications ([prompt.security](https://www.prompt.security)).
– “Prompt EMR” is a platform to manage physical and rehab therapy practices leveraging AI ([promptemr.com](https://www.promptemr.com)).
In summary, “prompt” can mean a computer user input request, a cause for action, assistance in remembering spoken words, a description of quickness, or names/titles in specific industries. The precise meaning depends on the area or usage context.
