JavaScript is a high-level, dynamic, untyped, and interpreted programming language that is widely used for web development. It allows developers to create interactive and dynamic content on websites, enhancing user experience. As a core technology of the World Wide Web, alongside HTML and CSS, JavaScript enables client-side scripting, meaning it can execute code directly in a user’s web browser without needing to communicate back to the server.
Originally developed by Brendan Eich in 1995 for Netscape, JavaScript has evolved into a versatile language supported by all modern web browsers. It is also used on the server side, often using environments like Node.js. JavaScript follows an event-driven, functional, and imperative programming paradigm, and it automates processes such as form validation, animation, and user interactions.
The language has a rich ecosystem, with numerous libraries (like jQuery) and frameworks (such as React, Angular, and Vue.js) that facilitate the development of complex applications. Due to its widespread adoption and versatility, JavaScript has become an essential skill for web developers.