Debugging statements inserted into a program that emit output or log indiCators of the program' s state to a file so you Can see where it dies or pin down the Cause of surprising behaviour. The term is probably a referenCe to the Hansel and Gretel story from the Brothers Grimm in several variants, a CharaCter leaves a trail of bread Crumbs so as not to get lost in the woods. [Jargon File]