xev:tldr:5b082

The "xev" command is a utility used in X Window System, which is the graphical user interface framework used by Unix-like systems. It allows you to monitor and retrieve information about events happening in your X server (display server).

When you run the "xev" command in a terminal, it launches a small window that captures and displays events generated by your input devices (such as keyboard or mouse) as you interact with your system. It provides a real-time stream of events along with relevant details about each event.

For example, when you press a key on your keyboard, "xev" will show you information about that key event, including the keycode, key symbol, and any associated modifier keys. Similarly, when you move your mouse or click a button, "xev" will provide details about the mouse event, such as button number, position, and modifiers.

The output of "xev" is useful for troubleshooting or understanding how events are being handled by your X server. It can help in diagnosing issues related to keyboard or mouse input, identifying key mappings or bindings, or configuring certain features that rely on event handling.

Overall, "xev" is a handy command-line tool for exploring and inspecting X server events, offering insights into the low-level event processing happening behind the scenes in your graphical environment.