hidden flag n.
[scientific computation] An extra option
added to a routine without changing the calling sequence. For
example, instead of adding an explicit input variable to instruct a
routine to give extra diagnostic output, the programmer might just
add a test for some otherwise meaningless feature of the existing
inputs, such as a negative mass. The use of hidden flags can make
a program very hard to debug and understand, but is all too common
wherever programs are hacked on in a hurry.
[scientific computation] An extra option
added to a routine without changing the calling sequence. For
example, instead of adding an explicit input variable to instruct a
routine to give extra diagnostic output, the programmer might just
add a test for some otherwise meaningless feature of the existing
inputs, such as a negative mass. The use of hidden flags can make
a program very hard to debug and understand, but is all too common
wherever programs are hacked on in a hurry.
Related:
- hidden flag n.
[scientific computation] An extra option
added to a routine without changing the calling sequence.
For example, instead of adding an explicit input... - pathological adj.
1. [scientific computation] Used of a
data set that is grossly atypical of normal expected input,
esp. one that exposes a weakness or bug in whatever... - fence n. 1.
A sequence of one or more distinguished
(out-of-band) characters (or other data items),
used to delimit a piece of data intended to be treated... - fence: n. 1. A sequence of one or more distinguished
({out-of-band}) characters (or other data items),
used to delimit a piece of data intended to be treated... - hook: n. A software or hardware feature included in order to
simplify later additions or changes by a user.
For example, a simple program that prints numbers... - hook n.
A software or hardware feature included in order to
simplify later additions or changes by a user.
For example, a simple program that prints numbers... - pathological: adj. 1. [scientific computation] Used of a data set
that is grossly atypical of normal expected input,
esp. one that exposes a weakness or bug in whatever... - ad-hockery /ad-hok'*r-ee/ n.
[Purdue] 1. Gratuitous
assumptions made inside certain programs,
esp. expert systems, which lead to the appearance... - glitch /glich/
[very common; from German `glitschig' to
slip,
via Yiddish `glitshen', to slide or skid] 1. n. A ...
