Sigil (computer programming)

In computer programming, a sigil (/ˈsɪdʒəl/) is a symbol affixed to a variable name, showing the variable's datatype or scope, usually a prefix, as in $foo, where $ is the sigil.

Sigil, from the Latin sigillum, meaning a "little sign", means a sign or image supposedly having magical power. Sigils can be used to separate and demarcate namespaces that possess different properties or behaviors.