(DDE, originally DynamIC Data Linking, DDL) A MICrosoft Windows 3 hotlinkprotocol that allows applICation programs to communICate using a client-server model. Whenever the server (or "publisher") modifies part of a document whICh is being shared via DDE, one or more clients ("subscribers") are informed and include the modifICation in the copy of the data on whICh they are working. (1997-06-05)