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Sigil (computer programming)
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<p>In <a href="/facts/Computer_programming/QmSsFnu0">computer programming</a>, a sigil is a symbol affixed to a <a href="/facts/Variable_(programming)/VoCKtwml">variable</a> name, showing the variable's <a href="/facts/Datatype/fcx5hgVL">datatype</a> or <a href="/facts/Scope_(programming)/bbj6AFMo">scope</a>, usually a prefix, as in $foo, where $ is the sigil. </p><p><i>Sigil</i>, from the <a href="/facts/Latin/pM3Kge85">Latin</a> <i>sigillum</i>, meaning a "little sign", means <i>a sign or image supposedly having magical power</i>. Sigils can be used to separate and demarcate <a href="/facts/Namespace/9efXwMtV">namespaces</a> that possess different properties or behaviors. </p>