In Python, a decorator is a function that takes another function as an argument, adds some kind of functionality, and returns the new function, all without altering the original source code.

Think of it as a wrapper function that modifies the behavior of the wrapped function. For example, a decorator can add logging, enforce authentication, measure performance, or perform any other kind of pre- or post-processing.

Syntax-wise, decorators are denoted by an @ sign followed by the decorator function name and placed before the function to be decorated. Here's a simple example decorator that adds logging to a function:

https://t.co/IZJW33GZQO

When we call the add function, it will now log its inputs and outputs:

Decorators are incredibly versatile and powerful tools in Python. They enable us to separate cross-cutting concerns such as logging, caching, and security from core business logic, leading to cleaner, more modular, and maintainable code.

By understanding the basics of decorators, we can leverage this powerful pattern to make our code more efficient and effective.9