One of the most misused data structures is the humble map; hashmap, dictionary, hash table, etc.
It's a great data structure for quick storage and access of key value pairs. Unfortunately, because of its ease and availability, it becomes pervasive at jobs it has no business doing. The problem grows most visible in dynamically typed languages that make the map a first class citizen (Python, Ruby, Clojure, etc.), but it can creep up in any language.
Man… I thought this was going to be a proper rant about using maps where you should be using other things… No, it’s a make sure you type your function inputs rant…