C++ is a general-purpose, object-oriented programming language that was developed in the early 1980s by Bjarne Stroustrup. It is an extension of the C programming language, which is considered the foundation of many modern programming languages.

C++ is a compiled language, which means that it is converted from human-readable code into machine-readable instructions by a compiler before it can be executed. This allows for efficient and fast execution of the program.

One of the key features of C++ is its ability to support object-oriented programming, which is a programming paradigm that focuses on the creation and manipulation of objects. Objects are self-contained units that contain data and functions (called methods) that operate on that data. This allows for a more organized and modular approach to programming, which helps to improve code maintainability and reusability.

In C++, objects are created from classes, which are templates that define the data and methods associated with an object. Classes can be extended and modified through inheritance, which allows for the creation of new classes with the same functionality as existing ones, but with additional features and functionality. This allows for the creation of complex hierarchies of classes and objects.

C++ also includes a number of powerful features that make it well-suited for a wide range of programming tasks. These include support for low-level programming, such as the ability to manipulate memory directly and interact with hardware, as well as support for high-level features such as templates and exception handling.

C++ is widely used in a variety of contexts, including the development of operating systems, games, and applications for mobile devices. It is also commonly used in the development of scientific and engineering software, as well as in the financial industry.

Overall, C++ is a powerful and versatile programming language that is well-suited for a wide range of applications. Its support for object-oriented programming and its ability to interact with low-level systems make it a popular choice for many developers.