Behavior driven development

/bɪˈheɪvjər ˈdrɪvən dɪˈvɛləpmənt/ noun

Definition

A software development approach that extends TDD by writing tests in natural language that describe the expected behavior of the system from a user's perspective. Tests are written in a Given-When-Then format that stakeholders can understand.

Etymology

Coined by Dan North in 2003 as an evolution of test-driven development. North wanted to address the confusion around 'what to test' by focusing on behavior rather than implementation, using the word 'behavior' from psychology to emphasize observable actions and outcomes.

Kelly Says

BDD is like writing a movie script before filming - it describes what the audience (users) will see and experience, not the technical camera angles or lighting setup. This bridges the gap between what business people want and what developers build!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.