What is the definition of polymorphism in programming?

Polymorphism in programming refers to the ability to present the same interface for different data types. This concept allows objects of different classes to be treated as objects of a common super class through a shared interface, enabling a single function to operate on different types of data. For example, both a cat and a dog can be treated as animals, and a function designed to handle animals can operate on both without needing to know the specifics of each.

This capability enhances flexibility and interoperability in programming, allowing developers to write more generic and reusable code. When methods have the same name but can operate on different classes, it allows for dynamic method resolution and can lead to cleaner and more maintainable code.

The other options refer to important programming concepts but do not accurately capture the essence of polymorphism. Creating different classes pertains to class design rather than the behavior of those classes. Inheriting properties relates more to inheritance, which is a separate concept. Executing multiple functions could hint at method overloading or function calls but does not specifically define polymorphism. Thus, the option about presenting the same interface for different data types accurately encapsulates the core idea of polymorphism.