Destructor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

programming

A destructor is a special member function in a class that is called when an object is destroyed. It is used to release resources that were allocated during the object's lifetime.

cleanup function, finalizer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
destructor	Primarily used in object-oriented programming, especially in languages like C++ or Rust, where it refers to a special method called when an object is about to be destroyed. The destructor releases memory allocated by the object. In C++, the destructor name is preceded by a tilde (~).
finalizer	Mostly used in managed languages like Java or C#, describing a method called by the garbage collector before an object is reclaimed. Unlike destructors, their timing and guarantees can be less predictable. In Java, the finalize method is used as a finalizer. A finalizer might be called if an object needs to perform additional cleanup right before garbage collection.
cleanup function	Used broadly in programming to describe any routine or method designed to handle resource deallocation or other cleanup tasks before a program or operation ends. The cleanup function closes file handles and network connections. Before exiting, the program calls a cleanup function to ensure all temporary files are deleted.

Examples of usage

• The destructor is typically used to deallocate memory or close files.

• In C++, destructors are defined with a tilde (~) followed by the class name.

• Using destructors helps prevent memory leaks in object-oriented programming.

• The destructor is automatically called when an object goes out of scope.

• In object-oriented programming, destructors are essential for proper resource management.