Version Range - CI/CD Glossary Definition

A version range is a constraint that allows a span of versions rather than one exact value, such as >=1.2.0 <2.0.0, letting the resolver pick the newest compatible release.

Common syntax

In npm, ^1.2.3 allows minor and patch updates, ~1.2.3 allows patch only, 1.2.x matches any patch, and * matches anything. Python uses >=, <, ==, and ~=.

Range plus lockfile

A range in the manifest expresses intent; the lockfile records the single version actually chosen, so installs are reproducible until you deliberately update.

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