What does the term “namespace” mean in C++?

In C++, a namespace is a mechanism used to distinguish different code blocks. It can be thought of as a container for storing a group of related code, variables, functions, and classes. By placing related code in the same namespace, naming conflicts can be avoided, leading to improved code readability and maintainability.

A namespace can be defined and used in any scope, including global scope, inside functions, and inside classes. It can contain multiple members such as global variables, functions, classes, structures, enums, etc. Specific namespace members can be accessed using the “::” operator. For example, if there is a namespace named “example” that contains a function “foo”, the function can be called using “example::foo()”.

One major advantage of using namespaces is the ability to avoid naming conflicts between different libraries or modules. By placing them in separate namespaces, potential conflicts can be prevented when multiple libraries or modules use the same name.

Furthermore, namespaces can also be used to organize code, making the code structure more clear. For example, related functions or classes can be placed in the same namespace, which can improve the code’s readability and maintainability.

In conclusion, a namespace is a mechanism in C++ used to distinguish different code blocks, helping prevent naming conflicts and enhancing the readability and maintainability of the code.