Abstract

An associative array is a one-dimensional array of unbounded size whose subscripts can be non-integral types such as character strings. Traditionally associated with dynamically typed languages such as AWK and SNOBOL4, associative arrays have applications ranging from compiler symbol tables to databases and commercial data processing. This paper describes a family of C + class definitions for associative arrays, including programming examples, application suggestions, and notes on performance. It concludes with a complete programming example which serves the same purpose as a well-known system command but is much smaller and simpler. 1.

Citations