botline
Lexicon ex Machina
botline /ˈbɒtlaɪn/ n., v., adj.
noun
The minimum acceptable standard of performance achievable through competent use of AI assistants. “The team’s botline has risen sharply since adopting coding agents.”
A baseline established by AI-generated output against which human work is measured. “Her analysis exceeded the botline but lacked original insight.”
verb botline | botlines | botlined | botlining
transitive. To establish or measure against an AI-derived performance standard. “We botlined the documentation process and found three engineers underperforming.”
intransitive. To perform at or near the minimum standard achievable with AI assistance. “He’s been botlining all quarter—technically adequate but uninspired.”
adjective
Of or relating to AI-established performance minimums. “Botline metrics now factor into annual reviews.”
Derivatives
botliner n. One who consistently performs at the botline; an engineer who relies heavily on AI without adding substantial value. “The team can’t afford another botliner in a senior role.”
sub-botline adj. Performing below what AI tools could produce unassisted. “Sub-botline commits will be automatically flagged for review.”
Origin Early 2026s, portmanteau of bot + baseline. Coined in software engineering contexts following widespread adoption of large language model assistants.