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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

JARGON 2.0

The Spokesman-Review

Chrome (n.)

Showy software features meant to lure users but contributing little or nothing to the power of a system. “The 3D icons in Motif are just chrome, but they certainly are pretty!” Distinguished from bells and whistles, which are there because developers think they need them.

Often used as a term of contempt. Like a fish lure, chrome is attractive but usually doesn’t leave a happy taste.