trash ☆

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Description:
CLI tool that moves files or folder to the trash

Type: Formula | Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025

Links: Homepage | formulae.brew.sh

Category: System utilities

Tags: cli macos utility file-management trash

Install: brew install trash

About:
Trash is a command-line interface (CLI) utility that moves files and folders to the macOS Trash instead of permanently deleting them with the rm command. This provides a safety net, allowing users to easily recover accidentally deleted items using the Finder. It integrates with the native system trash, ensuring files are handled consistently with the rest of the operating system.

Key Features:

Moves files to the native macOS Trash instead of permanent deletion
Command-line interface for easy scripting and integration
Supports both files and directories
Preserves original file metadata and location on recovery

Use Cases:

Safely deleting files from the terminal with the ability to restore them later
Cleaning up temporary files or build artifacts without risking permanent data loss
Scripting file management tasks that require a reversible delete operation

Alternatives:

rm – Standard Unix remove command is permanent and lacks a recovery option, making Trash a safer alternative for interactive use.
gio trash – The GNOME equivalent for Linux systems; Trash is specifically designed for macOS and its native Trash system.

Version History

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