Factor (programming language)

Factor is a stack-oriented programming language created by Slava Pestov. It is dynamically typed, with automatic memory management, and powerful metaprogramming features. The language has a single implementation featuring a self-hosted optimizing compiler and an interactive integrated development environment. The Factor distribution includes a large standard library. It is free and open-source software with a BSD license. Slava Pestov created Factor in 2003 as a scripting language for a video game. The initial implementation, now referred to as JFactor, was implemented in Java and ran on the Java virtual machine. Though the early language resembled modern Factor superficially in terms of syntax, the modern language is very different in practical terms and the current implementation is much faster. The language has changed significantly over time. Originally, Factor programs centered on manipulating Java objects with Java's reflective programming (reflection) abilities.