The following KeyValueMap class is a functional replacement for ActionScript 3.0’s built in dictionary. KeyValueMap provides you with some additional functionality that is not available in the built-in class.

The first is that KeyValueMap has default support. The primary benefit of this is to simplify the code needed when using a traditional dictionary. You can safely “get” a value, whether or not it exists.

The second major benefit is that it is type safe. There is no chance of accidentally casting a Boolean to a String.

The third benefit is the integration functionality. You can combine two KeyValueMaps by using the “integrate” and “getDictionary” functionality exposed by KeyValueMap.

Here’s the class. Have fun.