What is the command line equivalent of kupfer/quicksilver/synapse quick starter?

I want a way to quickly launch programs while I'm in an SSH terminal. But I don't want to have to remember the exact command. For example, if I type "fox" into kupfer/synapse/quicksilver or unity search, it will bring up firefox. Likewise if I type "browser" it'll bring up firefox. What is the commandline equivalent to this? Such that I can type browser and it lists firefox in the terminal I am familiar of course with hitting tab, but that assumes I have the first few letters correct, and doesn't let me type 'browser'. I am familiar with findutils locate command, but again, same problem. I want the smooth desktop experience via text, much like lynx browser gives a web experience via console.