Destructors

/dɪˈstrʌktərz/ noun

Definition

Plural of destructor; in programming, functions that automatically clean up and remove objects from memory; or, entities that destroy something.

Etymology

From 'destructor' (one who or that which destroys), formed from 'destruct' plus '-or' (suffix meaning 'one who' or 'that which'). Common in technical jargon borrowed from Latin agent noun formations.

Kelly Says

Computer scientists created 'destructors' as a clever solution: when a program creates an object (like a photo file), the destructor automatically deletes temporary copies from memory when done, preventing computers from drowning in digital junk.

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