Open Source & Community

License

/ˈlaɪsəns/

Definition

A legal contract specifying how open-source software may be used, modified, and distributed (MIT, Apache 2.0, GPL).

Example in context

"MIT license: do whatever you want, just keep the copyright notice. GPL: derivatives must also be open source."

Practice this term

Master License in context by working through exercises in the Open Source & Community module. You'll see the term used in real engineering scenarios with multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and matching drills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "License" mean?

A legal contract specifying how open-source software may be used, modified, and distributed (MIT, Apache 2.0, GPL).

How do you pronounce "License"?

"License" is pronounced /ˈlaɪsəns/.

Can you use "License" in a sentence?

"MIT license: do whatever you want, just keep the copyright notice. GPL: derivatives must also be open source."