Coupling (computer programming)

In software engineering, coupling is the degree of interdependence between software modules, a measure of how closely connected two routines or modules are, and the strength of the relationships between modules. Coupling is not binary but multi-dimensional.

Coupling and cohesion

Coupling is usually contrasted with cohesion. Low coupling often correlates with high cohesion, and vice versa. Low coupling is often thought to be a sign of a well-structured computer system and a good design, and when combined with high cohesion, supports the general goals of high readability and maintainability.