What is PHP Framework?

[pablohunt2812]

A PHP Framework in my eyes is a collection of classes which help you develop a web application.
In my company we use the Zend Framework. I have to say that getting started with this Framework is pretty hard, but if you get how to use the API and the Reference Guide you have a great Framework. Also its interessting because they have Zend people sitting on the project so they can use those internal tricks and get some performance boosts others can't get.
What also differs ZF from others is the ability to create MVC programms with no big hassles.

[moria]

PHP frameworks streamline the the development of web applications written in PHP by providing a basic structure for which to build the web applications. ... With MVC, Model refers to data, View refers to the presentation layer, and Controller to the application or business logic.

[BenWood]

A PHP Framework is a basic platform that allows us to develop web applications.

[lavyhair]

PHP framework is a library that makes the life of site developer easier by for example hiding some complexities of HTTP protocol or by adding some useful functions.

[sandrew272]

A PHP Framework is a basic platform that allows us to develop web applications. In other words, it provides structure.

[sandrew272]

A PHP Framework is a basic platform that allows us to develop web applications.

[Dam Ponting]

PHP framework is a library that makes the life of site developer easier by for example hiding some complexities of HTTP protocol or by adding some useful functions. For example the CakePHP implements so called MVC which makes developer to think a level higher than HTTP.

[lishmalinyjames]

A PHP framework is a platform to create PHP web applications. PHP frameworks provide code libraries for commonly used functions, cutting down on the amount of original code you need to write.