Definition

Noun (Computing): A collection of pre-written, standardized programs, subroutines, or modules that are stored and made available for immediate use by other programs. It provides reusable code to perform common tasks, promoting efficiency and consistency in software development.

Usage

A subroutine library is a fundamental resource in programming. Developers do not write code for common operations from scratch; instead, they "call" or "link" to the relevant parts of the library.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The C programming language relies heavily on the standard subroutine library for functions like input/output and mathematical operations.
  • To add graphical capabilities, the developer included a graphics subroutine library in the project.
  • One advantage of using a well-tested subroutine library is that it reduces bugs and development time.

Advanced Usage

• Static vs. Dynamic Libraries: A subroutine library can be static (linked into the executable at compile time) or dynamic (linked at runtime, allowing multiple programs to share the same library code).
  • The software uses a dynamic subroutine library, so updates to the library benefit all applications that depend on it.

Variants and Related Words

• Library (n): The more common, shortened term for "subroutine library" in computing contexts.
  • Make sure to link the math library to compile this code.
• Software Library (n): A synonymous term.
• Module (n): A distinct component of a program; a library is often a collection of modules.
• API (Application Programming Interface) (n): While not the library itself, an API defines how to interact with the functions provided by a library.

Synonyms

• Code library
• Program library
• Function library

Related Phrases

• To link against a library: The process of connecting a program to a library so it can use the library's code.
  • You need to link against the networking library for this feature to work.
• Standard library: The core library that is considered part of a programming language's standard specification.
  • Python's standard library is famous for its "batteries-included" philosophy.
• Third-party library: A library created by an external entity, not the language's core developers.
  • For machine learning, we used a popular third-party library.

Noun

1. (computing) a collection of standard programs and subroutines that are stored and available for immediate use