DPLs

Dynamic Programming Languages (DPLs) are a term used in computer science to describe a class of programming languages that emphasize flexibility and runtime dynamism rather than fixed compile-time constraints. DPLs typically feature dynamic typing, automatic memory management, and late binding, alongside first-class functions and reflective capabilities that allow programs to modify themselves or their environment at run time. This contrasts with statically typed languages where types are checked at compile time. DPLs are usually interpreted or implemented with just-in-time compilation, which supports rapid development cycles though may incur variable performance.

Common examples include Python, JavaScript, Ruby, Lua, Perl, and Smalltalk. At their best, DPLs enable rapid prototyping, scripting, glue code, and interactive exploration, and they are widely used in web development, data analysis, automation, and education.

Challenges include performance unpredictability, debugging complexity due to dynamic features, and sometimes weaker tooling or static analysis. Security considerations arise when dynamic evaluation of code is used.

The acronym DPL can also stand for other terms in different domains, but in software contexts it most often refers to dynamic programming languages; readers should rely on contextual cues to interpret the term.