How Do You Spell MAKEFILE?

1. A makefile, in the domain of software development and programming, is a file that contains a set of instructions or rules for executing a particular compilation process or a series of tasks automatically. Specifically, it is commonly associated with the GNU Build System, which is widely used in building and managing software projects.

   A makefile serves as a script or a blueprint that guides the build process by specifying dependencies and defining the steps to be taken to create or update a target or output file. It typically consists of rules, variables, and targets. Rules are directives that define how to build a target, while variables are used to store and manipulate values. Targets represent files or actions that need to be executed.

   The primary purpose of a makefile is to facilitate automatic building or rebuilding of the project whenever necessary. It automatically tracks the changes in source code files and detects which parts need recompilation. By relying on dependency information and timestamps, it intelligently determines the minimal set of actions required to bring the project up to date. This helps in managing complex software projects, especially those with multiple source files and dependencies.

   Makefiles are written in a specific syntax, often based on the make utility's language. They are executed by invoking a make command, which interprets the makefile and initiates the build process accordingly. Makefiles are highly customizable and allow developers to define their own rules and actions to suit their project requirements.

Common Misspellings for MAKEFILE

The term "makefile" originated as a combination of two words: "make" and "file".

"Make" refers to the utility program named "make" that was developed in the late 1970s at Bell Laboratories. It was initially designed to automate the build process of software projects by using a set of rules defined in a file called a "makefile". The program would read the makefile and execute the necessary commands to compile and link the program's source files.

On the other hand, "file" simply represents the concept of a document or collection of data stored on a computer.

Therefore, the term "makefile" was coined to describe the file that contains instructions for the "make" program to carry out the building or compilation process.