JavaScript library is a collection of pre-written code that provides useful functionality, so you don't have to reinvent the wheel every time you need to do something. It's like having a bunch of Lego blocks that you can snap together to build your app, instead of molding each piece from clay yourself.

How to use it in a sentence

• I was going to build that date picker from scratch, but then I found this JavaScript library that already does it, so I guess I'll just play Fortnite instead.

• My pointy-haired boss keeps asking why everything takes so long. I tried to explain how long it takes to evaluate JavaScript libraries to make sure they don't bloat the bundle size, but he fell asleep halfway through.

If you actually want to learn more...

• Micro Frontends - This article dives into the challenges around styling and shared component libraries when using micro frontends, which are often built using different JavaScript libraries.

• Workflows of Refactoring - Refactoring is an important practice to keep a codebase maintainable over time, including when introducing or updating JavaScript libraries. This tag page collects several useful articles on refactoring workflows.

• Front-End - The front-end tag explores many topics relevant to front-end development, including choosing and using JavaScript libraries effectively in modern web applications.

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