Can you explain what is meant by classes in object-oriented programming?

In object-oriented programming (OOP), a class is a template or blueprint for creating objects. A class defines properties (fields) and behaviors (methods) that the objects of this class will have.

For example, a Car class might have properties: color, brand, speed, and methods: drive, brake, honk. Creating an object of this class results in a specific car with defined characteristics.

Classes allow:

• Encapsulating data and logic together.
• Creating multiple objects with the same structure.
• Using inheritance and polymorphism to extend functionality.

Example in Java:

public class Car {
    private String color;
    private String model;

    public Car(String color, String model) {
        this.color = color;
        this.model = model;
    }

    public void drive() {
        System.out.println("The car is driving");
    }
}

Here, Car is a class, and objects of this class will be specific cars.