SHIM

Shim

In computer programming, a shim or shiv is a small library that transparently intercepts an API and changes the parameters passed, handles the operation itself, or redirects the operation elsewhere. Shims typically come about when the behavior of an API changes, thereby causing compatibility issues for older applications which still rely on the older functionality. In such cases, the older API can still be supported by a thin compatibility layer on top of the newer code. Web polyfills are a related concept. Shims can also be used for running programs on different software platforms than they were developed for.

The above text is a snippet from Wikipedia: Shim (computing)
and as such is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

shim

Noun

  1. A wedge.
  2. A thin piece of material, sometimes tapered, used for alignment or support.
  3. A small library that transparently intercepts and modifies calls to an API, usually for compatibility purposes.
  4. A kind of shallow plow used in tillage to break the ground and clear it of weeds.
  5. A small metal device used to pick open a lock.

Noun (etymology 2)

  1. a person characterised by both male and female traits, or by ambiguous male-female traits, also called a he-she; transsexual.
  2. hermaphrodite.

Verb

  1. To fit one or more shims to a piece of machinery
  2. To adjust something by using shims


The above text is a snippet from Wiktionary: shim
and as such is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

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