# version control

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/version-control
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a system that records changes to a file or set of files over time so that you can recall specific versions later. It allows multiple people to work on the same project without overwriting each other's work.

For teachers: the practice of tracking and managing changes to software code or documents through a system that maintains a history of modifications. It enables collaborative development by allowing users to revert to previous states and merge concurrent changes.

## Examples

- We use version control to keep track of our code changes.
- Before we launched the new website, we checked the version control history to see who made the last update to the homepage.
- Implementing a robust version control system is essential for modern software engineering, as it provides a safety net against accidental deletions and facilitates seamless collaboration across distributed teams.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a compound noun; frequently paired with 'system' or 'software'.

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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.