What is a trait in PHP?

A trait in PHP is specifically designed as a mechanism for code reuse. Traits allow developers to create reusable components that can be included in multiple classes. This feature is particularly useful in PHP, where multiple inheritance is not supported. By using traits, developers can include methods in a class without having to share a common ancestor, fostering a more modular and organized code structure.

Traits help to reduce code duplication and increase maintainability, as they allow for shared functionality to be defined once and used across multiple classes. When a class uses a trait, it can access the methods provided by the trait, enabling a flexible mix of behaviors.

While it is true that traits are often associated with object-oriented programming, referring to them merely as an object-oriented feature does not capture their main purpose of promoting code reuse. Similarly, traits are not built-in functions nor a type of variable, but rather a mechanism that empowers developers to effectively structure their applications.