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What does "override" mean in programming?
override 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 provide a new implementation of a method that already exists in a parent class. The child class version replaces the parent class version when called on an instance of the child class.
Example
"Override the save method to add validation before writing to the database."
Word forms
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| override | verb (infinitive) | To replace a method inherited from a parent class with a new implementation | "Override the toString method to return a custom string representation." |
| overridden | past participle | Already replaced with a new implementation in the child class | "The render method is overridden in each subclass." |
| overriding | gerund | Providing a new implementation for an inherited method | "Overriding the base method lets each subclass behave differently." |
Related terms
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