Dotfile

Definitions

1. A configuration file whose name starts with a dot (.), making it hidden in Unix directory listings. Examples include .gitignore, .bashrc, .env, and .eslintrc. Developers often version-control their dotfiles in a GitHub repo for consistent setup across machines.

   In plain English: Hidden configuration files starting with a dot that control how your development tools behave.

   Example: "Clone my dotfiles repo and run the install script — it sets up Vim, tmux, git aliases, and shell config in one go."

Related Terms

• Build System
• Cut
• DSC
• DSL
• Config Parser
• Configuration Standard
• GNU Coreutils
• Package Config