D

declaration::A construct that associates the name and the attributes of a variable, function, or type.

default::A condition that is assumed by a program if not specified.

definition::A construct that initializes and allocates storage for a variable or that specifies the name, formal parameters, body, and return type of a function.

device-dependent bitmap::A pattern of bits in memory which can be displayed on an output device. Because there is a close correlation between the bits in memory and the pixels on the display device, a memory bitmap is said to be device dependent.

device-independent bitmap::A pattern that describes the actual appearance of an image, rather than the way that image is internally represented by a particular display device.

device context::A device context defines the device, drawing tools, and drawing information for a complete device, such as a display or printer.

device driver::A special DLL that an application can load and connect to a specific output device and port.

dialog box::A temporary window that displays information or prompts the user for input.

dimension::The number of subscripts required to specify a single array element.

directive::An instruction to the C preprocessor to perform an action on source-program text before compilation.

disabled::A menu item that appears normal but does not respond to mouse clicks or selection by the keyboard.

dithering::A method of simulating a color by creating a unique pattern with two or more available colors.

double precision::A real (floating-point) value that occupies eight bytes of memory. Double precision values are accurate to 15 or 16 digits.

dynamic-link library::A special library that lets applications share code and resources.

dynamic linking::To link a library with an application at run time.