What is included in the definition of a member function?

A member function in C++ is defined by several key components that together provide a complete description of how that function operates within a class. The correct answer highlights that a member function includes not only its return type and name but also its parameters and the body of the function.

The return type specifies what kind of value the function will return after execution, which is essential for the compiler to understand how to utilize the function's output. The function name is crucial as it identifies the function and allows it to be called later in the code. Parameters define the inputs that the function can accept, making it versatile for different scenarios or data types. Lastly, the body of the function contains the actual implementation— the instructions that define what the function does when it gets called.

Each of these elements is necessary for declaring a member function correctly in C++, ensuring that it behaves as intended and can be integrated into the larger program properly. The combination of all these aspects contributes to the function's overall definition, which is essential for it to be understood and utilized within object-oriented programming.