# scaffolding

/ˈskæfəɫdɪŋ/ (US) · /skˈæfəʊldɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scaffolding
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a basic structure that helps you start a project quickly. In building, it is the metal frame workers stand on; in software, it is the initial code that a tool creates for you.

For teachers: a temporary framework used to support a structure or provide a base for development. In a technical context, it refers to the automated generation of boilerplate code to expedite the creation of a software application.

## Examples

- The developer used a tool to generate the database scaffolding.
- By using a scaffolding command, the team created the entire folder structure and basic routing for the new web application in seconds.
- While the generated scaffolding provides a functional skeleton for the project, developers must eventually replace these generic components with custom logic to meet specific business requirements.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.