Stereotype (UML)
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- For the same term in general usage, see stereotype.
In the Unified Modeling Language, a stereotype is a name denoted with double angle brackets that conveys a high level category, type, or meaning of an item. For example, in a class diagram stereotypes can be used to classify method behavior such as «constructor» and «getter». Stereotypes are one of three extension mechanisms in UML.
One alternative to stereotypes, suggested by Peter Coad in his book Java Modeling in Color with UML: Enterprise Components and Process is the use of colored archetypes. The archetypes indicated by different-colored UML boxes can be used in combination with stereotypes. This added definition of meaning indicates the role that the UML object plays within the larger software system.
In general usage, stereotype has a negative connotation.
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