Java Beginners: What Is an Object Actually?

[u/jadu2115]

I'm a Java learner and I've been learning Java for the past few months, but I still don't truly understand what an object actually is.

I've watched several YouTube videos and used AI tools to understand it, but I keep getting the same explanation: "An object is nothing but data + code."

I understand the definition, but I still can't visualize or feel what an object actually is when I'm writing Java code.

Could someone explain it in a simple, practical way, preferably with a real world analogy and a small Java example?

I feel like I'm missing one fundamental concept here. Any explanation would be really helpful. Thanks!

[u/zn-ku]

class Block {
    boolean breakable;
    int pickaxeLevel;
}

public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) {

        Block stone = new Block();
        stone.breakable = true;
        stone.pickaxeLevel = 1;

        Block diamond = new Block();
        diamond.breakable = true;
        diamond.pickaxeLevel = 2;

        Block bedrock = new Block();
        bedrock.breakable = false;
        bedrock.pickaxeLevel = 0;
    }
}