# AutoLISP

> dialect of the programming language Lisp built specifically for use with the full version of AutoCAD and its derivatives

**Wikidata**: [Q782397](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q782397)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoLISP)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/autolisp

## Summary
AutoLISP is a dialect of the Lisp programming language built specifically for use with the full version of AutoCAD and its derivatives. It is a dynamically typed programming language used primarily for computer-aided design (CAD). The language was introduced in 1986 and remains a tool for customizing AutoCAD environments.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** AutoLISP is a dialect of the Lisp programming language and is categorized as a computer programming language.
- **Inception:** The language was created on January 1, 1986.
- **Primary Use:** It is utilized specifically for computer-aided design (CAD) tasks.
- **Platform:** It is designed for use with the full version of AutoCAD and its derivatives, including AutoCAD LT 2024.
- **Typing Discipline:** AutoLISP employs dynamic typing.
- **Historical Version:** An early version was associated with AutoCAD 2.18, dated January 1986.
- **Basis:** The language is based on Lisp, a functional programming language rooted in lambda calculus (created in 1958).
- **Aliases:** It is also referred to as AutoLisp and اوتوليسب.

## FAQs
### Q: What is AutoLISP used for?
A: AutoLISP is used for computer-aided design (CAD). It is built specifically to customize and extend the functionality of the full version of AutoCAD and its derivative software.

### Q: Is AutoLISP different from standard Lisp?
A: Yes, AutoLISP is a dialect of Lisp. While it is based on the functional programming language Lisp (developed in 1958), it is tailored specifically for the AutoCAD environment rather than general-purpose computing.

### Q: When was AutoLISP created?
A: AutoLISP was inceptioned on January 1, 1986. Early versions, such as the one for AutoCAD 2.18, were documented in January 1986.

### Q: Does AutoLISP work with AutoCAD LT?
A: Yes, according to structured data regarding versions, AutoLISP is associated with AutoCAD LT 2024, indicating support for the language in this specific derivative of AutoCAD.

## Why It Matters
AutoLISP holds significant importance in the field of computer-aided design as one of the primary customization tools for AutoCAD, the industry-standard software for drafting and design. By basing itself on Lisp—a language rooted in lambda calculus and known for its flexibility—AutoLISP provided designers and engineers with a powerful way to automate repetitive tasks, create complex geometric calculations, and develop custom commands tailored to specific workflow needs without requiring compilation.

Its longevity is notable; originating in 1986, it has persisted as a relevant tool within the Autodesk ecosystem for decades. While newer APIs have emerged, the inclusion of AutoLISP in modern releases like AutoCAD LT 2024 demonstrates its enduring utility and the large repository of legacy custom programs that rely on it. It bridges the gap between human design intent and machine execution in the specific context of architectural and engineering drafting. This specialization makes it a critical asset for power users looking to optimize the "full version" of AutoCAD beyond its out-of-the-box capabilities.

## Notable For
- **Specific Integration:** Being built specifically for the full version of AutoCAD, distinguishing it from general-purpose Lisp dialects.
- **Longevity:** Maintaining relevance from its inception in 1986 through to modern releases like AutoCAD LT 2024.
- **Dynamic Typing:** Utilizing a dynamic typing discipline, allowing for flexible variable handling within scripts.
- **Lisp Heritage:** Being a direct derivative of Lisp, inheriting the functional programming paradigms based on lambda calculus.
- **Global Adoption:** Having Wikipedia documentation in over 10 languages, including English, Japanese, German, and Hebrew.

## Body
### Origin and Development
AutoLISP is a programming language that originated on January 1, 1986. It is a dialect of Lisp, a functional programming language originally conceived in 1958 based on lambda calculus. The development of AutoLISP was driven by the need to provide a scripting layer for AutoCAD users.

Historical data references the language's presence in "AutoCAD 2.18," dated January 1986. Unlike the base Lisp language, which is general-purpose, AutoLISP was developed with a singular focus: integration with computer-aided design systems.

### Technical Specifications
As a dialect of Lisp, AutoLISP shares the core characteristics of its parent language but is adapted for the CAD environment.
- **Typing:** It uses **dynamic typing**, meaning variable types are determined at runtime rather than compile time.
- **Functionality:** It allows for the creation of custom commands and automation routines within AutoCAD.
- **Platform Compatibility:** It is explicitly designed for the **full version of AutoCAD** and its derivatives.

### Versions and Availability
The language has evolved alongside the AutoCAD platform.
- **Early Adoption:** Referenced in version "AutoCAD 2.18" (1986).
- **Modern Support:** The language remains supported, as evidenced by its listing for **AutoCAD LT 2024** (released in 2024).

### Identifiers and Classifications
AutoLISP is registered and cataloged in various technical and academic databases:
- **Library of Congress Authority ID:** sh88006120
- **Freebase ID:** /m/0dktz
- **Open Library Subject ID:** autolisp_(computer_program_language)
- **Microsoft Academic ID:** 2781249610 (discontinued service)

It is classified as an **instance_of** a "programming language" and is strictly defined as a **dialect_of_computer_language** Lisp.

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
2. [Source](https://www.ronleigh.com/autolisp/ahistory.htm)
3. [Source](https://www.autodesk.com/blogs/autocad/autocad-lt-2024-autolisp/)
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Quora
6. National Library of Israel
7. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)