# Access Modifier

A keyword that defines what other code is allowed to see or execute this code.

## What is an **Access Modifier**?

An **access modifier** is a keyword used by the 
compiler to either expose or limit exposure of 
a function or property in a class.

* `private` variables/functions are ONLY accessible 
within the class that they are defined
* `public` variables/functions are publicly available to 
any code that can *see* the class

Level: Apprentice · [More OOP terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/subjects/oop/apprentice)

Updated: October 12, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/access-modifier