What does "delete" mean in programming?

delete 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 remove a property from an object, an element from a data structure, or a record from a database. In JavaScript, the delete operator removes a property from an object.

Example

"delete user.password; // removes the password property from the object"

Word forms

Form	Type	Meaning	Example
delete	verb (infinitive)	To remove a property, element, or record	"Delete the key from the object before sending the response."
deleted	past tense	Removed a property, element, or record	"The record was deleted from the database."
deleting	gerund	Removing a property, element, or record	"Deleting from the middle of an array requires a splice or filter."

Related terms

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