POLYMORPHISM Meaning and
Definition
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Polymorphism is a concept in computer science and object-oriented programming that describes the ability of an object to take on different forms or manifestations. It is the capacity for objects of different classes to be treated as objects of the same superclass, thus allowing objects to be more flexibly manipulated and utilized.
At its core, polymorphism enables objects or values to be accessed or manipulated in a generic or generic-like way, regardless of their specific implementation or inherent differences. In object-oriented programming languages, this is often achieved through inheritance and the use of interfaces or abstract classes.
Polymorphism allows a single interface or method to be implemented in multiple ways by different classes. This means that objects of different classes can all respond to the same message or call the same method, exhibiting different behaviors based on their individual implementations. This aids in code reusability, modularity, and extensibility, as it ensures that a common interface can be shared and implemented by multiple related classes, providing flexibility and efficiency in software design and development.
Overall, polymorphism plays a crucial role in object-oriented programming by promoting code reuse, simplifying complex systems, and enhancing flexibility, allowing for more efficient and maintainable software development.
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Occurrence in several forms; the existence in the same species or other natural group of several types; pleomorphism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POLYMORPHISM
Etymology of POLYMORPHISM
The word "polymorphism" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "poly" meaning "many" and "morphē" meaning "form" or "shape".
Similar spelling words for POLYMORPHISM
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