Linting

Definitions

1. Running a static analysis tool (a linter) over source code to detect potential errors, style violations, and suspicious constructs before runtime. Named after the original 'lint' program for C, which itself was named after the small fibers and debris removed from clothing.

   In plain English: Automatically checking your code for common mistakes and style issues — like a spell-checker but for programming.

Etymology

1978

Stephen C. Johnson at Bell Labs writes 'lint' for C, named after the bits of fiber and fluff caught by a dryer's lint trap

1990s

The concept expands beyond C; linters emerge for every language, catching style violations alongside real bugs

2013

ESLint launches, becoming the dominant JavaScript linter and establishing linting as essential to modern development workflows

Related Terms

• Regex
• Code Smell
• Code Golf
• Pre-Commit
• Static Analysis
• Static Site Generator
• Type Checking
• SonarQube
• Code Clone
• Code Linting
• Code Quality Gate