Enummer

Enummer is a conceptual framework for representing and enumerating discrete sets of values with stable ordering and rich metadata. It is used in discussions of data modeling and programming languages to describe how enumerations can evolve while preserving compatibility.

In an Enummer model, a type defines a finite set of members, each identified by a unique symbol and associated with a label, an optional numeric or string code, and optional metadata such as descriptions, deprecation status, or version information. Members may also have aliases to support alternative identifiers.

The architecture separates the abstract model from serialization. Core concepts include the EnummerType (the collection of members), EnummerValue (an instance corresponding to a member), and EnummerSerializer (a mechanism for encoding and decoding values in compact or human-readable forms).

Applications include configuration systems, data interchange formats, API schemas, and database migrations. By encoding versioned member sets and deprecation paths, Enummer supports evolution of enumerations without breaking existing data.

History and reception: Enummer originated as a formal notion in academic discussions of type systems and data modeling. While not a formal standard, it informs design considerations for languages and frameworks that manage evolving enumerations. See also: enumeration, type system, data modeling, schema evolution.