hackathon
noun
hack·a·thon
ˈha-kə-ˌthän 
plural hackathons
: an event in which computer programmers collaborate intensively with one another and sometimes with people in other specialties over a relatively short period of time to create code usually for a new software product or service
The goal of a hackathon is to create a prototype of an idea in record time—often over a single weekend. For the ambitious software developer, that usually means no rest or leafy greens.—
Kristen V. Brown
Kristen V. BrownIt's a hackathon—a contest to pitch, program, and present a functioning Android mobile application in 48 hours.—Steven Leckart
Steven LeckartIn the past, she's led students in accessibility hackathons where they designed sensor systems for wheelchairs and a game for the blind.—Brittany Britto
Brittany BrittoExamples of hackathon in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Turning a Weekend Hack Into a Business One standout moment at this hackathon was a presentation by Kazi Hossain, founder of Thred AI, who broke down exactly how to turn a weekend hack into a real business.
—Melissa Houston, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
Joining local Austin tech meetups or participating in virtual hackathons can expand your professional circle.
—Ethan Stone, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Additionally, holding regular hackathons outside the standard release schedule incentivizes extra participation among developers and offers learning opportunities for individuals not directly involved in specific modules or features, thereby promoting collaboration.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
The hackathon features a Maker’s Wonderland tour with a 3D printing demonstration; a DIY Personalized UV Resin Charm and a hackathon elevator pitch, followed by judging and awards.
—Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for hackathon
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Melissa Houston, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
Joining local Austin tech meetups or participating in virtual hackathons can expand your professional circle.
—Ethan Stone, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Additionally, holding regular hackathons outside the standard release schedule incentivizes extra participation among developers and offers learning opportunities for individuals not directly involved in specific modules or features, thereby promoting collaboration.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
The hackathon features a Maker’s Wonderland tour with a 3D printing demonstration; a DIY Personalized UV Resin Charm and a hackathon elevator pitch, followed by judging and awards.
—Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for hackathon
Cite this Entry
“Hackathon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hackathon. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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