1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. C / C++ / C#

Definition of Include Files

By David Bolton, About.com

Definition: An Include File is a Source Code file that is merged into another during compilation of C and C++.

It's a bit of an old fashioned technique as the merging is done by the preprocessor and one very large file is compiled. The files that are included are header files.

Glossary:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Examples:
To output any text in a C program you need to include the <stdio.h> header file.
Explore C / C++ / C#
About.com Special Features

Stay connected and entertained with reviews on tips on the latest HDTVs, cellphones and more. More >

Easy ways to connect two computers for networking purposes. More >

  1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. C / C++ / C#
  4. Glossary
  5. Include Files - Definition

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.