Continuous Integration
A practice of integrating small code changes frequently and validating the shared codebase with automated checks.
Plain English
Merge changes often and get fast evidence that the combined system still works.
In context
Effective continuous integration relies on short-lived branches a fast reliable build and immediate repair or reversal when shared validation fails.
Example
“The continuous integration job runs tests for every pull request and main-branch commit.”
When you'll hear this
- software development
- quality automation
- delivery pipelines
Common misunderstanding
Running a build server is not continuous integration when changes remain isolated for long periods or failures are ignored.
Also known as
CIcontinuous integration pipeline
Commonly used by
Related terms
Updated: 2026-08-27
