wtf

Expand a given acronym

$ wtf [IMO]

$ wtf -t [comp] [WWW]

wtf [acronym]

[acronym]
    The acronym or abbreviation to search for in the database.

The `wtf` command searches a database of acronyms and abbreviations, attempting to provide their full meanings. It's a simple utility to quickly look up definitions without needing a web browser or extensive documentation. The command is straightforward to use; you simply provide the acronym or abbreviation as an argument, and `wtf` attempts to find matching entries in its database. The database is often user-extendable, allowing users to add definitions that are specific to their domain or organization. It's a fast and convenient way to decipher common acronyms, and is primarily used in the command line environment by system administrators, developers, and other technical users.

The effectiveness of `wtf` depends on the completeness and currency of its database. If the acronym is not present in the database, the command will not return any results. The database is typically updated manually or through specific update mechanisms provided by the distribution or the tool itself.

The location of the acronym database can vary depending on the system and distribution. It's often located in a system-wide directory such as `/usr/share/misc/`. Users might be able to create personal databases or customize the default one to add new entries.

wtf RAM
Will display the meaning for the acronym RAM.

wtf CPU
Will display the meaning for the acronym CPU.

The history of `wtf` is somewhat obscure, but it's generally a tool that's been around in the Unix/Linux world for a while.

Its development likely stemmed from the common need to decipher technical acronyms used within various computing fields. It has been part of multiple repositories and is likely from the pre-GNU era. Its usage grew alongside the increasing prevalence of acronyms in technical documentation and communication.

apropos(1), man(1)