kludge

or kluge

[ klooj ]

noun

, Computer Slang.

1. a software or hardware configuration that, while inelegant, inefficient, clumsy, or patched together, succeeds in solving a specific problem or performing a particular task.

Word History and Origins

Origin of kludge¹

First recorded in 1960–65; expressive coinage

Example Sentences

Proof of work was a clever kludge—it wasn’t perfect, but it worked well enough.

From MIT Technology Review

The sous vide required a vacuum sealer (you can kludge it with plastic bags and a straw, but I am not that dedicated).

From The Daily Beast

Kludge did not arise by accident, and it will take something more than mere disapproval to reduce and replace it.

From The Daily Beast