What does seedcase mean?
A seedcase is a master copy or template from which other versions of a program, document, or product can be produced. The idea is horticultural: just as a seed can give rise to new plants, the seedcase serves as the common source for a series of related outputs. In software work, the expression may refer to the original source used to create customized or successive releases. It is especially associated with older computing terminology, where it described the principal version from which variations were made. Although the word can still be understood when encountered in technical or historical writing, “master copy” and “template” are usually clearer in modern usage. The term is most useful when emphasizing the relationship between an original and the versions derived from it rather than simply referring to ordinary source code.
nounA master copy or template from which other versions of a program or document are generated. In software versioning, it is the original version retained as the basis for subsequent revisions.
- A master copy or template from which different versions of a program or other material are generated.
"The developer updated the seedcase before generating versions for several different customers."
"Keep the original file as the seedcase so that each new version can be compared with it."
"After correcting the template, the programmer regenerated the package from the seedcase."
The plural is formed by adding “-s.”
"The team maintained separate seedcases for the desktop and mobile products."
A seedcase is where new software versions begin: one master copy that can grow into many offspring.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does seedcase come from?
“Seedcase” is a compound formed from “seed” and “case.” Its computing sense metaphorically treats the master version as the source from which later versions grow. The expression became established in programmer jargon, with early usage associated with Unix and related software culture during the late 20th century.
How seedcase is actually used
The term is chiefly used in computing and software-development contexts. It is uncommon in everyday speech and may sound dated to some readers.
Easily confused with seedcase
A seed is the reproductive unit of a plant, whereas a seedcase is a master copy or template used to produce other versions of something.