BASIC COBOL Meaning and
Definition
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Basic COBOL refers to a programming language that combines object-oriented programming concepts with the traditional COBOL language. COBOL stands for COmmon Business-Oriented Language and is primarily used in business computing applications. Developed in the late 1950s, COBOL is known for its simplicity and readability, making it suitable for non-technical individuals involved in business operations.
Basic COBOL builds upon this foundation by integrating modern programming features such as encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism. These features allow for the creation of reusable code modules, making the language more efficient and adaptable to changing business needs.
In Basic COBOL, encapsulation enables the bundling of data and procedures into objects, promoting code modularity and enhancing security by restricting access to data. Inheritance facilitates code reuse by allowing new classes to inherit properties and behaviors from existing classes. Polymorphism enables objects of different classes to be treated uniformly, enhancing flexibility and modifiability.
The introduction of these object-oriented programming principles in Basic COBOL brings added benefits to the language, including better code organization, improved code reusability, and enhanced maintenance. It also enables developers to leverage their existing knowledge of COBOL while incorporating modern programming practices.
Overall, Basic COBOL combines the simplicity and readability of COBOL with the power and flexibility of modern object-oriented programming, providing a well-rounded solution for designing and implementing business-focused applications.
Etymology of BASIC COBOL
The word "COBOL" stands for "COmmon Business-Oriented Language". It was developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s by a committee of computer professionals led by Grace Hopper. The committee aimed to create a programming language that was easy to read and write, specifically for business data processing.
The word "Basic" in "Basic COBOL" does not relate to the programming language "BASIC" (Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code), but rather serves as an adjective indicating the fundamental nature of COBOL as a programming language designed for business applications.
