A bit of etymology on Java and its Beans

 Version française disponible

This afternoon at the cafetaria, I don’t know exactly how we got there, but a colleague started to explain the origin of the name Java. I don’t know if I am the only one, but I never wonder why it is called like that (gulp, it was high time), so it was my kind of of breaking news today…

Java

You are probably familiar with the famous steaming cup of coffee, the logo of Java.

In fact, “java” is the american slang for “coffee”. I am french so I did not know.

Why did you choose this name for a programming language?

In 1996, Kim Polese (Product Manager) answered:

“I spent a lot of time and energy on naming Java because I wanted to get precisely the right name. I wanted something that reflected the essence of the technology: dynamic, revolutionary, lively, fun. Because this programming language was so unique, I was determined to avoid nerdy names. I also didn’t want anything with ‘Net’ or ‘Web’ in it, because I find those names very forgettable. I wanted something that was cool, unique, and easy to spell and fun to say.”

And Beans?

A Bean is a reusable class that usually represents a business object. Therefore they are used very often when programming in Java

When associated with coffee, a bean becomes a JavaBean!

Coffee beans are essential to make coffee. Beans and therefore the base classes are also essential to create an application.

Voila! But, do not try to reuse your coffee beans, you will be a little bit disappointed with your coffee…