FETCHOBJ

FETCHOBJ is a term used in software development to describe an operation on an object store or data repository that retrieves an object by its identifier. The term is not a formal standard, and its exact meaning varies by library or framework.

Overview and usage. FETCHOBJ typically refers to a function, method, or macro named fetchObj (or FETCHOBJ) that returns a reference or handle to an object stored externally. Depending on the API, the object may be loaded eagerly or lazily, and may be cached or proxied. Errors are commonly possible if the object cannot be found or if access is denied. Many implementations offer synchronous and asynchronous variants, returning the object directly or via a future, promise, or callback.

Context and patterns. In object stores, databases, or content repositories, FETCHOBJ usually takes a store handle and an object identifier or path, yielding the object’s data or a deserialized instance. It may support options such as loading depth, partial field retrieval, or permission constraints. Some environments provide alternative names (for example, getObject or retrieveObject) while preserving a similar retrieval concept.

Relation to broader concepts. FETCHOBJ is related to patterns such as the repository pattern, data access objects, and data mappers. It also connects to general data retrieval norms, caching strategies, and the distinction between eager and lazy loading.

Notes on usage. Because FETCHOBJ is not standardized, its exact semantics depend on the surrounding API. Practitioners should consult the specific library’s documentation for parameter meanings, return types, error handling, and performance guidance.

See also: FETCH, GETOBJ, object store, repository pattern, data access object, lazy loading.