Autocd

Autocd is a shell feature that automatically changes the current directory when the user types the name or path of a directory, without requiring the cd command. It is most commonly associated with the zsh shell, where autocd is implemented as a shell option (setopt autocd) and can be enabled or disabled in a user’s configuration.

How it works: When autocd is enabled, typing a directory name or a path that resolves to a directory will cause the shell to perform a cd to that location. This behavior respects the usual directory resolution rules, including CDPATH, so you can navigate to directories that are not in the current directory using the same semantics as the standard cd command. If the entered token does not refer to an existing directory, the shell will treat it as a normal command and attempt to execute it.

Configuration and usage: In zsh, enable autocd by adding setopt autocd to .zshrc, or disable it with unsetopt autocd. Some users also enable autocd via framework plugins (for example, Oh My Zsh) that provide similar functionality or additional customization. Autocd is primarily a feature of zsh; other shells may offer similar behavior through plugins or custom scripts.

Examples: If the current directory contains a subdirectory named src, typing src will cd into ./src. Typing /var/log will cd to /var/log if that path exists. If a directory named with the typed token is not found, the command is treated as usual.

Relation and notes: Autocd is not part of the POSIX standard and is implemented as a shell-specific option. It is commonly discussed in the context of interactive shell workflows and directory navigation efficiency.