MAJORMINORPATCH

MAJORMINORPATCH refers to a triplet versioning scheme used in software development to signal the scope of changes in each release. It is typically written as MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH, with three numeric fields that are incremented according to defined rules.

Major releases indicate backward-incompatible changes, API removals, or substantial redesigns. They warn dependent software to prepare for potential breaking changes. Minor releases add backward-compatible features, enhancements, or improvements without breaking existing code. Patch releases address bugs, security fixes, and minor issues while remaining backward compatible with prior patches of the same major version.

Origins and formalization: The triplet model is most closely associated with semantic versioning, commonly known as SemVer. SemVer provides a formal set of rules for what constitutes a major, minor, or patch increment and for optional pre-release and build metadata that can accompany a version number.

Structure and interpretation: Version numbers typically start at 0.x.y or 1.0.0, depending on a project’s maturity. Increments follow a hierarchy: a major increase signals breaking changes; a minor increase signals new, backward-compatible functionality; a patch increase signals backward-compatible bug fixes. Pre-release identifiers (such as -alpha or -beta) and build metadata (such as +build.1) can be appended to indicate testing stages or build versions.

Usage and impact: The MAJORMINORPATCH scheme supports automated dependency management and upgrade planning, enabling developers and package managers to gauge compatibility and risk before adopting a new release. While SemVer is the dominant standard, some ecosystems implement variations with slight differences in rules or starting points.