Ubuntu 26.10 Has a Surprising Codename: Meet 'Stonking Stingray'

Every Ubuntu release gets a whimsical codename, continuing a tradition that began in 2004. The latest upcoming version, Ubuntu 26.10, has just been named “Stonking Stingray.” This alliterative pairing of an adjective and an animal follows the alphabetical pattern set by previous releases, but the adjective “stonking” has raised eyebrows, especially outside the UK. Let’s dive into the details of this unique codename, the naming convention, and what it means for the Ubuntu community.

What is the codename for Ubuntu 26.10?

The codename for Ubuntu 26.10 is Stonking Stingray. As with all Ubuntu releases, the name consists of an alliterative adjective-animal pair. The adjective “Stonking” is a British informal term meaning “very large” or “impressive,” while “Stingray” refers to the marine animal. This codename follows the alphabetical progression from the previous LTS release (Ubuntu 26.04, codenamed “Resolute Raccoon”), moving from ‘R’ to ‘S’. Though perhaps unusual at first glance, the name continues Ubuntu’s lighthearted tradition of pairing creative adjectives with animals.

Why does the “Stonking Stingray” codename sound strange?

The strangeness stems mainly from the adjective Stonking. While common in British slang (as noted by OMG! Ubuntu), it is largely unfamiliar to global audiences. Outside the UK, “stonking” may sound odd or even comical, as it’s rarely used in everyday speech elsewhere. Combined with “Stingray,” a creature not typically associated with large or impressive qualities, the pairing feels whimsical yet perplexing. The codename highlights Ubuntu’s willingness to embrace quirky, region-specific vocabulary, which can spark curiosity and discussion among users worldwide.

How does Ubuntu’s codename tradition work?

Since the very first release in 2004 (Warty Warthog), Ubuntu has followed a strict naming formula: each version receives an alliterative adjective-animal codename. The adjective always begins with the same letter as the animal, and the letter progresses alphabetically with each release. For example, after “R” (Resolute Raccoon) comes “S” (Stonking Stingray). This tradition makes it easy to track release order while adding a fun, memorable identity to every version. The animal becomes the official mascot for that release, often used in promotional materials and community references.

What was the previous Ubuntu codename, and how does it connect?

The immediate predecessor to Ubuntu 26.10 is Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, codenamed Resolute Raccoon. As an LTS (Long Term Support) release, it carries extra stability and five years of updates. By advancing from ‘R’ to ‘S’, the team maintains the strict alphabetical sequence. This connection is important because it ensures continuity: every new codename naturally follows the last, reinforcing the system’s predictability. Users can glance at a codename and instantly know where it falls in the release timeline, as long as they remember the alphabet.

Is “Stonking” a real word, and what does it mean?

Yes, “stonking” is a real word, though it is primarily informal and used in British English. It functions as an adjective meaning “extremely large” or “impressive.” For instance, someone might say “a stonking great house” to emphasize size. While less common in formal writing, its inclusion in an Ubuntu codename showcases the project’s British roots (Canonical is UK-based). This choice also adds a local flavor, celebrating regional language despite potential confusion abroad. The word’s rarity outside the UK is exactly what makes the codename stand out.

Will the codename affect Ubuntu 26.10’s development or features?

No, the codename is purely cosmetic and has no impact on development, features, or release schedule. It serves as a branding tool to give each release a distinct identity and to rally community excitement. The development process continues independently, focusing on kernel updates, software packages, and stability improvements. However, the codename often appears in unofficial artwork, community events, and digital wallpapers. For Ubuntu enthusiasts, the codename adds a layer of personality to the technical updates, making each release a little more memorable.