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Objective-C Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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Objective-C

[əbˈdʒɛktɪv siː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

programming language

Objective-C is a general-purpose, object-oriented programming language that adds Smalltalk-style messaging to the C programming language. It was the primary language used by Apple for macOS and iOS development before Swift.

Synonyms

coding language, programming language.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Objective-C

This term is specifically used when referring to the Objective-C programming language itself. It is often used in documentation, coding tutorials, and discussions about iOS and macOS software development.

  • I started learning Objective-C to develop apps for the iOS platform.
  • Objective-C has been widely used in Apple's software ecosystem.
programming language

This term is more formal and technical, suitable for educational, professional or technical discussions. It refers to a structured language used to write computer programs.

  • C++ is a powerful programming language used in game development.
  • Understanding the fundamentals of a programming language is crucial for software engineering.
coding language

A general term used in casual conversations or when speaking to people with less technical background. It refers to any language used for writing code.

  • Python is a popular coding language for beginners.
  • I'm studying a new coding language to improve my programming skills.

Examples of usage

  • He is proficient in Objective-C programming.
  • Learning Objective-C can be beneficial for iOS development.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

Objective-C is known for its dynamic runtime and object-oriented features, making it a versatile language for developing software applications.

Synonyms

programming tool, software development language.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Objective-C

Use when referring specifically to the programming language itself, often in technical discussions or documentation.

  • Objective-C is an essential skill for developing iOS applications prior to the introduction of Swift
  • Many legacy codebases still rely heavily on Objective-C
software development language

Use in a broader context to describe programming languages in general, focusing on their role in creating software applications.

  • Objective-C is a software development language that has been widely used for macOS and iOS app development
programming tool

Use when discussing various utilities or environments that assist in the development process, including compilers, debuggers, or IDEs.

  • Xcode is an excellent programming tool for developing software in Objective-C

Examples of usage

  • Many developers still use Objective-C for legacy projects.
  • Objective-C has influenced the design of other programming languages.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Objective-C gained popularity when Apple adopted it as the primary programming language for its macOS and iOS operating systems in the late 1990s.
  • Steve Jobs introduced Objective-C to Apple developers during his return to the company in 1997, showcasing its potential for app development.
  • The language's use of Smalltalk-style messaging contributed to its unique object-oriented features, differentiating it from other languages.

Technology

  • Developers traditionally utilize Xcode, Apple's integrated development environment, to write and compile Objective-C applications.
  • Objective-C supports dynamic typing and runtime scripting, enabling more flexibility in how objects interact in an application.
  • It has influenced the development of newer programming languages, most notably Swift, which was introduced by Apple as a more modern alternative.

Pop Culture

  • Although many developers have shifted to Swift, Objective-C is still a prominent language, especially among legacy Apple applications.
  • Numerous popular apps and successful programs, like early versions of Instagram and Airbnb, were built using Objective-C.
  • Its cultural impact is seen in coding bootcamps and educational platforms emphasizing its role in the evolution of mobile software.

Community

  • Objective-C has a strong community of developers, with abundant resources and forums where programmers share knowledge and help each other.
  • Major open-source projects and libraries have been consistently shared among this community, ensuring the language remains relevant.
  • Though newer languages are emerging, many established developers still advocate for Objective-C due to its versatility and deep integration into Apple's ecosystems.

Origin of 'Objective-C'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'Objective-C' suggests a goal-oriented approach to programming, combining 'objective' elements with the elegance of the C programming language.
  • It was developed in the early 1980s by Brad Cox and Tom Love, aiming to add object-oriented programming features to C.
  • The 'C' in Objective-C derives from its close connection to the C language, which is foundational for many other programming languages.

Objective-C was created by Brad Cox and Tom Love in the early 1980s. It was used by NeXT Computer and later acquired by Apple Inc. The language gained popularity due to its use in developing macOS and iOS applications. However, with the introduction of Swift in 2014, Objective-C usage has declined.