Bytecode is the intermediate representation of code that's been compiled but not yet executed, kind of like the mushy peas of the programming world - not quite source code, not quite machine code. It's used by languages like Java and C# to provide portability, allowing the same compiled bytecode to run on any platform that has the right virtual machine installed, which is pretty neat, even if it does add an extra layer of abstraction to confuse junior developers.

How to use it in a sentence

• I was trying to debug my Java program, but all I could see was this goddamn bytecode - what am I, some kind of masochist?

• The new hire kept bragging about how his C++ skills meant he didn't need any of that bytecode nonsense, until he realized our entire codebase was in C#.

If you actually want to learn more...

• If you're curious about the nitty-gritty details of how bytecode works under the hood, check out this deep dive into the specifics of Java bytecode. It's dense, but hey, you asked for it.

• For a higher-level overview of the role of bytecode in the compilation process, this article breaks it down nicely, complete with helpful diagrams for the more visually inclined.

• If you really want to geek out, you can learn about the history of and how it's evolved over time. Perfect for your next dinner party or Tinder date.

Note: the Developer Dictionary is in Beta. Please direct feedback to skye@statsig.com.