# k8s

/ˈkeɪ.eɪts/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/k8s
Updated: 2026-10-20

## Definition

Stands for Kubernetes. A powerful computer system used by software engineers to manage and run many different programs at the same time across many servers.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Kubernetes. An open-source container-orchestration system for automating software deployment, scaling, and management. The '8' represents the eight letters between the 'k' and the 's' in the full word.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in technical writing and speech as a shorthand for Kubernetes; pronounced as 'K-eights'.

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