What does JVM stand for in Java?

The term JVM stands for Java Virtual Machine, which is a crucial component of the Java programming environment. The JVM serves as an abstract computing machine that enables a computer to run Java programs. It provides a platform-independent way of executing Java bytecode, which is the output of the Java compiler.

When a Java program is compiled, it is transformed into bytecode rather than machine code, which allows it to be executed on any device equipped with a Java Virtual Machine. This characteristic contributes to Java's motto of "write once, run anywhere," as the same bytecode can run on various operating systems without needing modifications.

Understanding the role of the JVM is fundamental for Java developers, as it also manages system resources, performs garbage collection, and provides runtime optimizations, ensuring that Java programs execute efficiently across different hardware and operating systems.