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What does "append" mean in programming?
append is one of the most common terms in software development. This guide explains what it means, how it is used in practice, and why it matters, with real examples from the developer world.
Definition
To add an item to the end of a list, array, or string. In Python, list.append(item) adds an element. In the DOM, appendChild inserts a node at the end of a parent.
Example
"items.push(newItem); // push appends to the end of the array in JS"
Word forms
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| append | verb (infinitive) | To add an element to the end of a list or string | "Append the new item to the end of the list." |
| appended | past tense | Added to the end | "The log entry was appended to the file." |
| appending | gerund | Adding to the end | "Appending to a file is safer than overwriting it." |
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