Homonym: pointers (Indicators)
Pointers are a feature in programming languages like C and C++ that store the memory address of a variable. Instead of holding a value directly, a pointer points to where that value is located in memory. This allows for efficient data manipulation and can help manage resources like memory more effectively.
Using pointers, programmers can create dynamic data structures such as linked lists and trees. They enable functions to modify variables outside their local scope, enhancing flexibility. However, improper use of pointers can lead to issues like memory leaks or segmentation faults, making careful management essential.