Final answer:
In Java, when a class method has the same name and parameter list as an inherited method, it is known as method overriding. The subclass provides a specific implementation, allowing for polymorphic behavior. This principle is based on Java's object-oriented programming and every class inherits from the Object class.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a class contains a method that has the same name and the same number and types of parameters as an inherited method, this is known as method overriding. In Java, every class is a descendant of the Object class, which is the root of the class hierarchy. When a method is overridden, the subclass provides a specific implementation for the method that was defined in the superclass. This is a fundamental concept in Java's object-oriented programming, allowing for polymorphic behavior where the method to be invoked is determined at runtime based on the object's actual class type.
Method overriding in Java is a mechanism where a subclass provides a specific implementation for a method already provided by one of its superclasses. This allows Java programs to take advantage of dynamic method dispatch, as well as to modify behavior inherited from parent classes. The key to overriding is ensuring that the method signature is the same as the one in the superclass. This includes the method name, return type, and parameter list.