Override

Definition

Override allows a subclass to provide a specific implementation of a method that is already defined in its superclass. This is used to alter or extend the behavior of inherited methods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Python, method overriding is achieved by defining a method with the same name and signature in the subclass.
2. The `super()` function can be used within an overridden method to call the method from the superclass.
3. Method overriding is essential for polymorphism, allowing different classes to be treated through the same interface.
4. When overriding methods, it's possible to enhance rather than completely replace the functionality of the superclass's method.
5. Overridden methods maintain consistency with the concept of inheritance by ensuring that all necessary behaviors are still accessible.

Review Questions

• What is method overriding and why is it useful?
• How do you call a superclass's method from an overridden method in Python?
• Explain how polymorphism relates to method overriding.

Related terms

Inheritance:

A mechanism where one class inherits attributes and methods from another class.

Polymorphism:

The ability of different classes to be treated as instances of the same class through a common interface.

super():

A built-in function used to call a parent class's methods or constructors.