Unix philosophy

proper noun

An approach to software development based on the experience of developing the Unix operating system, emphasizing the creation of minimalist, modular, extensible code that can be easily maintained and repurposed.

Meanings

proper nounthe Unix philosophy
  1. computingAn approach to software development based on the experience of developing the Unix operating system, emphasizing the creation of minimalist, modular, extensible code that can be easily maintained and repurposed.
Cite this entry
APA

Unix philosophy. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Unix%20philosophy

MLA

“Unix philosophy.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Unix%20philosophy. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Unix philosophy,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Unix%20philosophy.

Source: Unix philosophy on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.