The Howdy Glossary

Gauche is a Scheme dialect that adheres to the R6RS standard while also supporting previous standards like R5RS and selected SRFIs. It integrates an object system called GOOPS (Gauche Object Oriented Programming System) within its module-based extension structure, facilitating practical application development while maintaining the Scheme philosophy. With support for multithreading and a wide array of libraries for tasks such as database access, network communications, and XML parsing, Gauche is ideally suited for scripting needs and creating complex server-side applications.

Gauche's competitive edge lies in its seamless integration of GOOPS, enabling developers to create applications without deviating from the Scheme paradigm. The dialect supports multiple Scheme standards like R6RS, R5RS, and various SRFIs, making it versatile and compatible with diverse programming requirements. Its robust standard library includes features such as multithreading capabilities along with additional libraries for numerous tasks including database access and XML parsing. These attributes position Gauche as an attractive choice for scripting tasks and intricate server-side development.

In contrast to other popular Scheme implementations such as MIT/GNU Scheme, Racket, Chicken Scheme, and Guile—each with unique strengths—Gauche distinguishes itself through its extensible environment backed by GOOPS. This flexibility appeals to users who seek a balance between adhering to the elegant principles of the Scheme language and meeting practical application development needs. The inclusion of comprehensive multithreading support and extensive libraries further solidifies Gauche's status as a powerful tool within the broader landscape of Scheme dialects.