Sourcery

Sourcery is a term often used colloquially to refer to the use of clever or intricate programming techniques, particularly those that might seem almost magical or obfuscated to less experienced programmers. It implies a high degree of skill and ingenuity in crafting code that is efficient, concise, or solves a problem in a surprising or unexpected way.

More broadly, "sourcery" can describe any form of trickery or deception, especially in the pursuit of a desired outcome. In the context of programming, this meaning can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting that the techniques used, while clever, might be difficult to understand, maintain, or debug.

The term differs from "wizardry" in that "sourcery" often implies a darker or more manipulative aspect to the skill being employed. It suggests a focus on achieving a specific result, even if it means sacrificing clarity or maintainability. While "wizardry" often suggests inherent skill and effortless mastery, "sourcery" can imply a deliberate manipulation of the tools and techniques available to achieve a desired effect, potentially at the expense of ethical coding practices or long-term project health.

In some contexts, "sourcery" can also refer to reverse engineering or the unauthorized modification of software.