constructor

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A person or company that builds things, especially large structures or machines.

   Grammar: Countable noun: a constructor, the constructor, constructors.

   Patterns

   • a constructor of something
   • the constructor of a building

   The constructor of the bridge was praised for finishing ahead of schedule.

   She works as a constructor for a company that builds wind turbines.

2. 2nouncountablecomputingtechnical

   In programming, a special method that creates and initializes a new object.

   Grammar: Technical term; often used with 'class' or 'object'.

   Patterns

   • a constructor for a class
   • call a constructor
   • define a constructor

   In Java, a constructor has the same name as the class.

   The constructor initializes the object's properties when it is created.

Word forms

Common combinations

call a constructor

When you create a new instance, the program automatically calls a constructor.

default constructor

If you don't define any constructor, the compiler provides a default constructor.

constructor method

The constructor method sets up the initial state of the object.

building constructor

The building constructor hired more workers to meet the deadline.

Synonyms and how they differ

builder

More common for a person who builds houses or other structures; 'constructor' is often used in technical or formal contexts.

maker

General word for someone who makes things; 'constructor' specifically suggests building large or complex things.

initializer

In programming, a broader term; 'constructor' specifically creates and initializes an object.

Opposites

Word family

construct verb

To build or create something.

construction noun

The process or business of building things.

constructive adjective

Helpful and intended to improve something.

Commonly confused: constructor or constructor?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “constructor”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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