1. In Programming:
* #include directive: This is a preprocessor directive used in C, C++, and other programming languages. It tells the compiler to insert the contents of a specified header file (like `.h`) into the current file. Essentially, it's a way to reuse code and organize projects.
2. In General Usage:
* To contain or comprise: This is a general, broader meaning of "includes." It implies that something is a part of a larger whole.
* Example: "The package includes a shirt, pants, and a hat."
* To encompass or involve: This emphasizes that something is a part of a larger process or system.
* Example: "The research includes interviews with experts."
* To mention or specify: This indicates that something is listed or explicitly stated.
* Example: "The contract includes a clause about termination."
3. In Set Theory:
* Subset: In mathematics, set A is a subset of set B if all elements of A are also elements of B. We can write this as A ⊆ B. The "includes" relation is often used interchangeably with the "subset of" relation.
4. In other contexts:
* "Includes but is not limited to": This phrase is used to emphasize that a list is not exhaustive and can contain other items not explicitly mentioned.
* Example: "Our services include, but are not limited to, website design, SEO, and marketing."
To better understand the meaning of "includes" in a specific context, pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation.