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

It's a hackathon—a contest to pitch, program, and present a functioning Android mobile application in 48 hours.

—Steven Leckart

In the past, she's led students in accessibility hackathons where they designed sensor systems for wheelchairs and a game for the blind.

—Brittany Britto

Examples of hackathon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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

This can be done by incorporating continuous learning into daily workflows and encouraging hands-on learning through micro-projects, hackathons, internal training, and peer mentorship. —Gary Drenik, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025

The itinerary for the month includes programming on regulation, interoperability and artificial intelligence, interspersed with hackathons and wellness and recreational events designed to build community in a way that a typical conference or hackathon cannot. —Aaron Stanley, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025

Participating in hackathons can also provide valuable hands-on experience while demonstrating your problem-solving abilities in real-time. —Jay Garcia, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

hack entry 1 + -athon

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hackathon

• aileron
• antiphon
• autobahn
• carillon
• castellan
• celadon
• cephalon
• chitosan
• cynodon
• denouement
• deuteron
• echelon