Just in time compilation

/dʒʌst ɪn taɪm ˌkɑmpəˈleɪʃən/ noun

Definition

A compilation technique where code is compiled to native machine code at runtime, just before execution, rather than ahead of time.

Etymology

Borrowed from manufacturing's 'Just-In-Time' inventory system (Toyota, 1970s) where parts arrive exactly when needed. Applied to computing in the 1980s-90s, describing compilation that happens exactly when code needs to run.

Kelly Says

It's like having a personal chef who only cooks your meal after you sit down at the table - instead of pre-cooking everything, the system waits until the last moment to compile your code, which allows for optimizations based on actual runtime conditions!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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