this post was submitted on 26 Apr 2026
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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So, we'll pronounce it "Wilbur"?
I'm sure those in charge of this had the argument and went 'round and 'round with it. And, this is what they came up with.
Whatever, we'll get used to it, but I'm not sure it's a good idea. It will probably hurt brand recognition more than the mildly-offensive "GIMP" ever has. At least when noobs heard "gimp", their ears would perk up in mild surprise, and they'd ask what it is, there-by solidifying the product in their minds. "Wilbur" just won't have the same effect, because there's no surprise. They'll ask, but the impact will not be as great, and they'll forget. "Wilbur" is forgettable as a name for anything, or anyone. "Gimp" is not.