How Do You Spell EIGENCLASS?

Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪd͡ʒəŋklˌas] (IPA)

"Eigenclass" is a term in object-oriented programming that refers to a special class that describes the properties of a given object. The word is spelled "aɪɡənklaːs" in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress placed on the second syllable. The "ei" in the beginning of the word is pronounced like "eye," and the "g" is a hard sound as in "go." The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced like "ah," and the final "s" is a voiced "z" sound.

EIGENCLASS Meaning and Definition

1. An eigenclass, also known as a metaclass or singleton class, is a special class that exists for each individual object in an object-oriented programming language. It can be defined as a class that holds the unique behaviors and characteristics of a specific object, separate from its regular class. Essentially, the eigenclass describes the behaviors and properties that are applicable only to that particular object.

   The eigenclass is created automatically when a new object is instantiated or dynamically added to a class. It acts as a wrapper or container for the object's own methods and variables, allowing modifications or additions to be made specifically for that object without affecting other instances of the same class.

   One of the key characteristics of the eigenclass is its singleton nature. It means that there can only be one eigenclass per object, ensuring that the modifications made to an object's eigenclass are unique and distinct.

   Eigenclasses provide a powerful mechanism for dynamic and metaprogramming in object-oriented languages. They allow programmers to define object-specific behaviors, create and modify methods at runtime, and implement modifications without altering the original class or affecting other instances.

   In summary, an eigenclass is a unique class associated with each individual object, containing its specific behaviors and characteristics. It allows for dynamic modifications and metaprogramming, providing a way to define object-specific behaviors without affecting other instances of the same class.

Etymology of EIGENCLASS

The word "eigenclass" is derived from two separate elements: "eigen" and "class".

1. Eigen: The term "eigen" comes from German and Dutch, where it means "own" or "specific". It can also be translated as "characteristic" or "peculiar". In mathematics, the word "eigen" is used to describe a specific, characteristic property of a mathematical object, such as an eigenvalue or eigenvector.

2. Class: In computer science and object-oriented programming, a class is a blueprint for creating objects. It defines the properties and behaviors that an object of that class can possess. The concept of a class is central to object-oriented programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python.