The rename command is a Perl-based utility in Linux used to rename single or multiple files quickly using pattern matching. It is especially useful when you need to modify filenames in bulk.
General Syntax
rename [ -v ] [ -n ] [ -f ] perlexpr [ files ]
Options Explained
-v — Verbose mode. Displays renamed files.
-n — Test mode. Shows the expected result without making changes.
perlexpr — A Perl expression used to define the rename rule.
Example Command
rename -n 's/\.htm$/\.html/' *.htm
The -n option performs a dry run and displays how files will be renamed without actually modifying them.
If the output looks correct, run the final command:
rename -v 's/\.htm$/\.html/' *.htm
This command renames all files ending with .htm to .html.
Command Breakdown
s → Substitute operation.
s/old/new/ → Replaces old text with new text.
. → Escapes the period (.) so it is treated as a normal character.
.htm$ → Matches filenames ending exactly with .htm.
$ → Indicates the end of the filename.
* → Wildcard selecting all .htm files.
Using the rename command simplifies bulk file management and reduces manual work in Linux environments.
