forker

A forker is a term used in the context of software development and version control systems, particularly in the context of Git. It refers to an individual or entity that creates a copy of an existing repository, known as a fork, to work on independently. This process allows for experimentation, modification, and contribution to the original project without directly affecting it.

Forking is a common practice in open-source development, where contributors may fork a project to propose changes, fix bugs, or add new features. Once the changes are made, the contributor can submit a pull request to the original repository, requesting that the changes be merged back into the main codebase.

Forking can also be used in proprietary software development, where a company might fork an open-source project to use as a starting point for their own product. This approach can save time and resources by leveraging existing code and functionality.

In summary, a forker is someone who creates a copy of a repository to work on independently, contributing to the original project or using it as a foundation for new development. This practice is integral to the collaborative nature of software development and the open-source community.