Sanity Test
// Definition
A narrow, focused test run after a small change to confirm the change works as intended without breaking adjacent functionality. Lighter and more targeted than smoke testing.
// Related terms
Smoke Test
A small, fast test suite that verifies the most critical functionality works after a build — ensures the app is healthy enough for further testing. The first signal in any pipeline.
Regression Test
A test that verifies previously fixed bugs haven't returned and existing features still work after new changes. Forms the safety net for refactoring and feature work.
Retesting
Re-running a test that previously failed, after a fix has been applied, to confirm the original defect is resolved. Distinct from regression testing, which checks unrelated areas.
Learn more · Software Testing Fundamentals
Chapter 3 · Lesson 2: Smoke, Sanity, and Regression Testing