Design Patterns: WTF is a Shim?

Too Long; Didn't Read

The term "shim" appeared to being placed offhand, with the context not being setup properly to indicate what it is exactly that the "Shim" represented. Shim is likely still an acceptable term, when the component is acting as a combination of adapter and a proxy. If the component does fit in with a more specific role of being a proxy, adapter or facade, then using that term should be encouraged in design meetings to avoid confusion. The term 'shim' is used to describe an adapter, facade or proxy in Structural patterns.