PHP
PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor
ELI5 — The Vibe Check
PHP is a server-side language that powers a huge chunk of the internet — WordPress runs on PHP, and WordPress runs about 40% of all websites. It has a complicated reputation among developers but it works and it's everywhere.
Real Talk
PHP is a widely-used server-side scripting language designed for web development. It runs on the server and generates HTML dynamically. Despite criticism of its early design, modern PHP (8.x) is significantly improved. Powers WordPress, Drupal, and Laravel.
When You'll Hear This
"The client's WordPress site is PHP-based." / "Laravel is a modern PHP framework."
Related Terms
Interpreter
An interpreter reads your code and runs it line by line in real time, like a live translator at a conference.
Laravel
Laravel is the elegant PHP framework that made PHP developers feel good about themselves again.
Runtime
Runtime is the environment where your code actually runs.