: a flexible, general-purpose computer programming language that is derived from C (see c entry 1 sense 8) but that includes some features not found in C (such as capabilities for object-oriented programming) and that is used for writing large or complex programs that would be difficult to write in C

Examples of C++ in a Sentence

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Additionally, Chrome, primarily built on C++, often faces dangling memory pointers due to its complex, multi-process design and dynamic memory sharing, increasing the potential for such vulnerabilities. Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The malware stands out because its developers wrote it in native C++. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 21 July 2026 The courses within the Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle are taught by Joseph Delgadillo, who teaches you different programming languages in a few hours, like C++, Python, and Java. New Atlas, 14 May 2026 But the open secret is that, much as theoretical physicists cannot change a tire to save their lives, most AI researchers can’t so much as write a single line of C++. Sheon Han, Wired News, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for C++

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of C++ was in 1985

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Cite this Entry

“C++.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/C%2B%2B. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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