array definition vs array declaration

Question

I have a global array. The memory of this array will be allocated from data segment. I get confused what should I call this array. Is it array declaration or array definition? I think since the memory is allocated this should be array definition.

int array[4][5][2]; //  declaration or definition? 4*(4+5+2) bytes will be allocated
int main()
{
    return 0;
}

Vlad from Moscow · Accepted Answer · 2014-11-06 18:41:13Z

2

According to the C Standard (6.7 Declarations)

5 A declaration specifies the interpretation and attributes of a set of identifiers. A definition of an identifier is a declaration for that identifier that:

— for an object, causes storage to be reserved for that object;

As you noted yourself the memory for the array is reserved in data section then you have a declaration of an array that at the same time is a definition.

answered Nov 6, 2014 at 18:41

Vlad from Moscow

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Pablo Santa Cruz · Accepted Answer · 2014-11-06 18:35:22Z

0

In that case it's both: declaration + definition.

If you have in a separate file something like:

extern int array[4][5][2];

Then that's only declaring it, since definition occurs in other "external" file.

answered Nov 6, 2014 at 18:35

Pablo Santa Cruz

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