javalike

Javalike is a term used in software development to describe languages, APIs, or code patterns that resemble Java in structure, syntax, or ecosystem. It is an informal descriptor derived from Java with the -like suffix, not a formal language name. The label is used when a language or tool adopts familiar Java conventions—class-based object orientation, static typing in many modes, a curly-brace syntax, explicit error handling, and a preference for cross-platform deployment through a widely used runtime or bytecode.

A javalike design typically features class declarations, interfaces, inheritance, a robust standard library, and a tooling ecosystem built around classpaths, jars, package management, and common integrated development environments. Runtime environments may include a virtual machine or bytecode platform that allows portability across operating systems. The degree of similarity to Java varies; some languages offer near-identical syntax with language extensions or improved ergonomics, while others maintain Java-like APIs and run on the JVM or on interoperable runtimes.

Common examples of javalike ecosystems include Kotlin and Groovy, which run on the JVM and interoperate with Java code, as well as other JVM languages that borrow Java-inspired idioms. In software architecture and education, the term is used to indicate that a language or API is intended to be approachable to Java developers or to facilitate porting and interoperation with Java libraries.

Critics caution that 'javalike' is an imprecise label; real differences in typing discipline, concurrency models, or runtime behavior can affect portability, performance, and developer experience.