enumok

Enumok is a loosely used term in software development to refer to a pattern in which an enumerated type (enum) encodes a set of discrete, predefined states, often with an emphasis on indicating that a value is acceptable or "OK" in a given context. The expression is not a formal standard and its meaning can vary between languages and projects.

In programming, an enum used in an "enumok" pattern typically defines a closed set of outcomes such as Ok, Warning, and Fail, or similar variants. The Ok variant is commonly used to signal success or validity, sometimes carrying additional payload data. Languages with algebraic data types or sum types (for example, Rust, Swift, TypeScript discriminated unions) support patterns that resemble the "enumok" approach, though the exact terminology differs by ecosystem.

In data modeling or API design, enumok refers to constraining a field to a fixed set of literal values (strings, integers, or symbols) to enforce valid states and facilitate validation, parsing, and documentation. The value of this approach lies in explicitness and type-safety, but it can also increase coupling between components if the enumeration evolves.

Because "enumok" is not a formal term, readers should rely on contextual definitions within a codebase or documentation. Clear naming and accompanying docs help avoid confusion with other enum-related concepts such as status codes or generic result types.

See also: enumerated type, sum type, variant, OK/Err pattern, result type, tagged union.