Acronym for Command Line Interface, a text-based user interface for interacting with computer programs. Users type commands rather than using graphical elements like buttons or menus.
Modern acronym formed from 'command line interface.' The concept dates to early computing in the 1960s when teletype machines were used to interact with mainframe computers before graphical interfaces existed.
The CLI represents computing's 'power user' mode - it's like speaking directly to the computer in its native language rather than using the friendly pictures of graphical interfaces. Many programmers swear by CLIs for their speed and precision, viewing them as more 'authentic' ways to interact with technology.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.