What is a `WeakReference` in Java and when should it be used?

Question

Java Associate — Hard

What is a `WeakReference` in Java and when should it be used?

Accepted Answer

A `WeakReference` in Java is a reference that does not prevent the referenced object from being garbage collected. This allows the JVM to reclaim the object when only weak references remain, making it useful for scenarios where you want to have a reference to an object without preventing it from being collected.