discord

discord [OPTIONS...]

--help
    Displays basic command-line help information and exits. The extent of this help is usually limited to application-launching arguments.

--version
    Prints the application's version number and exits.

discord://<url>
    While not a traditional option, the discord executable can process Discord-specific URLs (e.g., invites to servers, links to channels). Running discord discord://invite/my-server would attempt to open that specific link within the application.

The discord command on Linux is primarily used to launch the Discord desktop application, a popular proprietary VoIP, instant messaging, and digital distribution platform. Unlike traditional Linux command-line utilities, discord is a graphical user interface (GUI) application designed for real-time communication among users. It allows for voice calls, video calls, text messaging in private chats or communities (servers), and sharing of media files. When invoked from the terminal, it typically opens the Discord application window, providing access to its full set of features for communication and community management. Its command-line interface is minimal, serving mainly to initiate the application rather than providing extensive operational control via the terminal.

The discord executable on Linux is not a standard command-line utility in the sense of tools like ls, grep, or sed. It is a proprietary graphical application whose primary function is to provide a user interface for communication. Its command-line arguments are extremely limited, mainly confined to basic application control (like opening specific URLs or showing version information) rather than manipulating system processes or files. Installation typically occurs via package managers (APT, DNF, Pacman), Snap, Flatpak, or by direct download of an AppImage or .deb/.rpm package. It does not possess a man page in the traditional Linux system (section 1-8).

On most Linux distributions, Discord is installed through package managers or containerized formats. Once installed, simply typing discord in a terminal is the most common way to launch the application. Users can also launch it via their desktop environment's application launcher or menu system.

When launched, discord typically opens its main application window. It usually runs in the background, often providing an icon in the system tray for easy access or to indicate new notifications, even after the window is closed. This behavior is consistent with many desktop communication applications.

Discord was launched in 2015, initially gaining popularity among gamers. Over time, its usage expanded to various communities. The Linux client for Discord was developed as part of its cross-platform strategy, allowing users on Linux distributions to access the full features of the Discord platform. While the underlying technology and development are continuous, the 'command' itself has always served the singular purpose of launching the GUI application, with its interface and features evolving within the application itself, rather than through command-line options.

snap(1), flatpak(1)