The word "bugs" has been used for centuries to mean "insects," and for about 80 years it has also meant "germs." When the machine age began, mechanics who were not satisfied with the performance of some invention or contraption often spoke about "getting the bugs out." Their meaning was to get rid of hidden problems, glitches and inconsistencies that were not immediately apparent.

Those problems seemed to hide inside the machine just like bugs hide behind kitchen cabinets. In the computer age, this expression has become even more popular, as computers and software are often marketed in early versions that come with hidden problems, only apparent after continued use. Even the makers of expensive, high-tech gadgets need "to get the bugs out" before selling such merchandise.