Search code examples
cclassstorage-class-specifier

Why are storage classes called classes?

auto, register, static and extern are called storage classes in C. But why are they called classes when there are no classes in C?

Solution

  • The word "classes" (plural of "class") is a common English term and in this case is being used as such.

    class

    Pronunciation /klas/ /klæs/

    NOUN

    A set or category of things having some property or attribute in common and differentiated from others by kind, type, or quality.

    "the accommodations were good for a hotel of this class"

    "a new class of heart drug"