cncf/glossary

The CNCF Cloud Native Glossary is a reference resource that defines cloud native concepts in clear and simple language for audiences with any level of technical background.

The project addresses the need for accessible definitions of cloud native terminology. It provides a centralized glossary hosted at glossary.cncf.io where developers, operators, and non-technical stakeholders can look up common terms used in cloud native discussions. The glossary is built using Hugo and includes a downloadable PDF version alongside the web interface. The project also provides a framework for others to create their own glossaries based on the same codebase and structure.

This resource suits anyone working with or learning about cloud native technologies who needs quick, clear explanations of domain-specific terms. It works well as a reference for teams adopting cloud native practices, for documentation writers needing consistent terminology, and for organizations building their own internal glossaries. The project explicitly welcomes contributions and provides instructions for both contributing to the main glossary and spinning up independent glossary projects using the same tooling.

The project maintains an active contribution model with multiple maintainers overseeing the glossary's evolution. The codebase is structured to support both the primary glossary and derivative projects, indicating ongoing investment in the infrastructure and tooling. Local development is straightforward, requiring only npm and Hugo installation, with options to run the site with or without local search functionality through npm scripts.