Account
Categories

mv command


Definition:

When you type the mv command in your terminal, it moves a file or directory from one location to another. It can also be used to rename files or folders. You can move a file within the current directory using a relative path, or move it anywhere in the system using an absolute path.


Syntax:

mv [source] [destination]
    

Example 1: Rename a file

Command:

$ mv file1.txt file2.txt
    

Explanation:

  • The source file name is file1.txt.
  • The command renames it to file2.txt.
  • Only the name changes, the content remains the same.

Example 2: Move file using relative path

Command:

$ mv file1.txt ./Documents/
    

Explanation:

  • file1.txt is present in the current directory.
  • The command moves it into the Documents folder (relative path).

Example 3: Move file using absolute path

Command:

$ mv file1.txt /home/user/Documents/
    

Explanation:

  • The source file file1.txt is in the current directory.
  • The command moves it to /home/user/Documents/ (absolute path).