What does it mean to "initialize" a variable?

To "initialize" a variable means to assign it a starting value at the moment it is created. This is a crucial step in programming because it ensures that the variable has a defined state before it is used in calculations or logic operations. By providing an initial value, you prevent potential errors that might arise from attempting to use uninitialized variables, which can lead to unpredictable behavior in code execution.

When a variable is initialized, you define not only the name and type of the variable but also what data it will hold at the beginning of its lifecycle in the program. For example, if you define a variable intended to store a score in a game, initializing it to zero provides a clear starting point from which the game logic can build.

Creating a variable without any value does not fulfill the purpose of initializing, as an uninitialized variable may produce errors or incorrect results when accessed. Deleting a variable, on the other hand, removes it from memory and does not involve any assignment of value. Changing its type pertains to datatype conversion, which does not relate directly to the act of initialization.