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It's actually “convert and copy” but the command name `cc` was already occupied by “C compiler”, so they just incremented each letter to `dd`. `dd` can convert
by tempodox 6y ago
It's actually “convert and copy” but the command name `cc` was already occupied by “C compiler”, so they just incremented each letter to `dd`. `dd` can convert-and-copy any device, not just disks.
- tempodox 6y agoAnd if you thought my parent comment was a bad joke, maybe read the man page: https://www.systutorials.com/docs/linux/man/1-dd/ https://www.systutorials.com/docs/linux/man/1-dd/
- hyperman1 6y agoAs it's inconceivable to conflict both Ritchie and the jargon file when talking about UNIX history, I stand corrected. However, I do remember seeing 'cc was already taken, hence dd' in some old linux documentation.
- JdeBP 6y agoAs can be seen at https://unix.stackexchange.com/q/6804/5132 https://unix.stackexchange.com/q/6804/5132 , this wrong answer is still more popular than the right one that is supported by Dennis Ritchie. A salutary lesson in believing things to be true because they seem humorous or are popular.
- classified 6y agoForgive GP for not knowing which Bible to read and at whose altar to prostrate themselves. Like every religion Unix has its goyim and infidels that need to be flogged and flagellated so they can achieve proper enlightenment.