JavaScript is a programming language developed by Netscape commonly used in web development; used to add dynamic and interactive elements to web pages. The coding language is a “client-side” language meaning the source code is processed by the client’s web browser rather than on the web server. “Client-side” refers to the functionality of being able to run software after a web page has loaded without communicating with the server. For example, a JavaScript function may check a web form before it is submitted to make sure all the required fields have been filled out. JavaScript code can produce an error message before any information is actually transmitted to the server. Standard JavaScript is still used for performing basic client-side functions, many web developers now prefer to use JavaScript libraries like jQuery to add more advanced dynamic elements to websites.
Source: TechTerms
Additional Reading: Major Websites Plagued by Lack of Effective Security Against JavaScript Vulnerabilities
Related Terms: OWASP Top Ten