What does IDE stand for in software development?

The term IDE stands for Integrated Development Environment, which is a comprehensive suite of tools that developers use to write, edit, test, and debug their code. An IDE typically includes features such as a code editor with syntax highlighting, a compiler or interpreter for executing code, a debugger for finding and resolving errors, and sometimes tools for version control and graphical user interface design.

This integration of various tools within a single application enhances productivity by allowing developers to manage their development workflow more efficiently. For example, rather than switching between a text editor and a separate terminal or build tool, an IDE provides all of these functionalities within one interface, making it easier to see changes in real-time and streamline the coding process.

The other options listed do not accurately describe the primary function of an IDE in software development. They may refer to different concepts or tools, but they lack the comprehensive integration that defines an Integrated Development Environment.