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So, a method that alters its object is a mutator. A method that does not alter its object but returns a value (or reference to a value) is a getter. Is there a widely used name for a method that does not alter its object, does not return a value, but potentially alters objects passed to it as arguments. That is, a method that would only every be called for its side-effects on the arguments.

These methods are quite common if you are keen on the Strategy design pattern.

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Raedwald
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I call these methods operations.

They enable the object to be used as an operator. I don't call them operators however, because I program much C++, where operator method has a particular and different meaning.

Raedwald
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Is there an widely used name for a method that does not alter its object, does not return a value, but potentially alters objects passed to it as arguments.

The lack of replies suggests that, no, there is no widely used name for such a method.

Raedwald
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