To me, the phrase "scripting language" implies a set of controls for some other application or operating system, in other words a "macro". For example, a script might open files in Photoshop, convert them from CMYK to RGB and save them as GIFs.

This contrasts with a "programming language" that is essentially unlimited in its power. This definition puts Perl firmly in the "programming language" camp and I've always been baffled to hear it described as a "scripting language".

But I'm obviously out of step here....