← Glossary
What does "declare" mean in programming?
declare is one of the most common terms in software development. This guide explains what it means, how it is used in practice, and why it matters, with real examples from the developer world.
Definition
To introduce a new name such as a variable, function, or type into a program. Declaring reserves the name; assigning gives it a value.
Example
"const maxItems = 100; // declares and assigns a constant"
Word forms
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| declare | verb (infinitive) | To introduce a new name (variable, function, type) into the program | "Declare the variable before you use it." |
| declared | past tense | Introduced a new name into the program | "The function was declared at the top of the file." |
| declaring | gerund | Introducing a new name into the program | "Declaring a variable inside a loop creates a new binding each iteration." |
Related terms
Ready to practice your English at work?
Lingua-e has interactive exercises built around real developer conversations: standups, code reviews, retrospectives, and more. Practice until it comes naturally.
Try Lingua-e for free