encapsulated variable

noun

UK /ɪnˈkæpsjʊleɪtɪd ˈveəriəbl/

US /ɪnˈkæpsəleɪtɪd ˈveriəbl/

A variable that is kept safe inside a little box so only certain parts of a program can see or change it.

The encapsulated variable can only be changed by calling the class's own method.

SYNONYMS

private variable hidden variable protected variable wrapped variable

RELATED WORDS

encapsulation class access modifier getter setter

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A variable bundled together with the methods that operate on it inside an object.

In object-oriented design, an encapsulated variable belongs to the object and is accessed through its interface.

3. A data field whose direct access is restricted to prevent accidental outside changes.

By making the balance an encapsulated variable, the bank program stops other code from setting it to a wrong value.

4. A variable hidden behind a public function so its internal details stay private.

The encapsulated variable stores the player's score, and only the updateScore function can modify it.