Class names in Java typically represent what type of word?

In programming with Java, class names are designed to represent nouns. This convention aligns with the object-oriented programming paradigm where classes are used to define objects that encapsulate data and behavior. Each class, therefore, signifies a distinct entity or concept within the program, making it intuitive to identify what the class represents, such as "Car," "Dog," or "Employee."

By using nouns for class names, developers can convey the core purpose and role of the class in a clear and meaningful way. This practice aids in reading and understanding the code structure, as it aligns the class definitions with real-world objects and ideas, which are fundamental to object-oriented design.

While action words or verbs might represent methods (which define actions performed by objects), class names should focus on the entities themselves. Descriptive words might be used for variable names or comments but do not align with the convention of naming classes. Modifiers, on the other hand, typically refer to keywords that alter how classes, methods, or variables behave, rather than serving as the primary naming convention.