The Mystery Behind Ubuntu Release Name

Ubuntu users are no doubt familiar with the unique and funky name for its releases (Feisty Fawn, Breezy Badger, Hoary Hedgehog) in which it is more popular than the release number (7.04, 6.10, 6.06). Most people tends to remember the codename when refering to a particular Ubuntu release (such as Ubuntu Dapper as opposed to Ubuntu 6.06)

The main reason codename is used because it is easier for humans to memorize names compared to release number (hence the motto Linux for human beings). he same codename is also used as development name during initial buildup stage. Using the same codename has the advantage of reducing potential confusion that might arise from the different development/release name pairs.

Though the Ubuntu Wiki Page explains how codenames are formed, it doesn’t reveal the technique of naming the release is known as Alliteration.

The use of Alliteration
Alliteration is a form of mnemonics that uses the same alphabet (consonant) in two consecutive words, like Peter Parker and Lex Luthor. Phrases that use alliteration is easier to remember than those that do not.

Alliteration isn’t solely used by Ubuntu alone, other brand names or products that use alliteration includes :

• Playboy Playmates
• Spongebob Squarepants
• Coca-cola
• French Fries
• Kit Kat
• Pontiac Pursuit
• Super Sonic
• Take Two
• Peter Pan
• King Kong
• Mickey Mouse
• Paypal
• Plater of Paris
• Tic-tac
• Ding Dang
• Marilyn Manson
• Kuda Kepang

Alliteration can make a phrase more memorable which explains why Ubuntu release name is more widely known than its release number (ie. How many people remembers Ubuntu Hoary release number?).

p/s: Now I know why I have no trouble recalling Paypal as a credit card processor service or French Fries when ordering chips at any fast food restaurant and Coca Cola as my favorite soft drink (yeah, carbonated drinks are not good, but at least they are not as pretentious as Ribena)

[tags]breezy badger,ubuntu,feisty,feisty fawn,linux,distro[/tags]