developer-roadmap/src/data/roadmaps/cpp/content/virtual-methods@hNBErGNiegLsUJn_vgcOR.md

Virtual Functions in C++

Virtual functions enable runtime polymorphism in C++, allowing derived classes to override base class behavior. When called via a base pointer/reference, the actual object's type determines which function is executed (dynamic dispatch). Non-virtual functions use compile-time resolution based on the pointer/reference type (static dispatch), which prevents overriding.

// Base class with virtual function
class Animal {
public:
    virtual void speak() { std::cout << "Generic sound"; }
};

// Derived class override
class Dog : public Animal {
public:
    void speak() override { std::cout << "Woof!"; } // Dynamic dispatch
};

Visit the following resources to learn more:

• @official@C++ Virtual Functions Documentation
• @article@GeeksforGeeks Virtual Functions Guide
• @video@Virtual Functions Explained (YouTube)