:hidden flag: [scientific computation] n. 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.
-- The AI Hackers Dictionary
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.
-- The AI Hackers Dictionary
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... - 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... - 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/ [Purdue] n. 1. Gratuitous assumptions
made inside certain programs,
esp. expert systems, which lead to the appearance... - 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... - glitch: /glich/ [from German `glitschen' to slip, via Yiddish
`glitshen',
to slide or skid] 1. n. A sudden interruption in ... - 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... - munching squares: n. A {display hack} dating back to the PDP-1
(ca.
1962, reportedly discovered by Jackson Wright), which...
