array

Sayuh-RAY/əˈɹeɪ/AUS/əˈɹæɪ/

14 meanings of array

1
nounusually singular
A very large group of things gathered together in one place.
Like a whole shelf packed full of different snacks.
The store had a huge array of toys for kids to choose from.
She kept a large array of seashells on her windowsill.
Similarrange, collection, assortment, variety, host
Note
2
nouncountable
A set of things placed neatly in a line or order.
Like books lined up neatly on a shelf in order.
The soldiers stood in a neat array across the field.
He set the chess pieces in their usual array before the game.
Similararrangement, formation, configuration, pattern, series
Oppositedisarray, disorder, jumble
3
nouncountable or uncountable
A group of things spread out so people can see them all.
Like a buffet where all the food is set out for you to see.
The bakery showed a colorful array of cakes in the window.
On the table sat an array of cheeses for the guests to try.
Similardisplay, selection, range, collection, assortment
4
nouncountable
A way computers store many items of the same kind, each found by its own number.
Like a row of lockers, each with its own number.
The programmer stored all the scores in a single array.
You can find any item in the array by typing its number.
Note
5
verbtransitive
To put things in a neat, ordered way.
Like setting out chess pieces neatly before a game.
The general arrayed his troops along the ridge.
Workers array the chairs in straight rows before each show.
Similardeploy, marshal, arrange, position, order
Oppositescatter, disperse
6
nouncountable
In math, a grid of numbers set out in rows and columns.
Like a calendar grid, with numbers filling each box.
The teacher wrote the numbers as an array of rows and columns.
We can add two arrays of the same size, one cell at a time.
Similarmatrix, table
Note
7
verbtransitive
To dress someone in fine clothes and decorations.
Like dressing up a doll in its very best outfit.
The servants arrayed the queen in silk and jewels.
They array the statue in flowers for the festival each year.
Similardress, clothe, attire, robe, adorn
Oppositeundress, strip, disrobe
Note
8
noununcountable
Fine clothes and decorations that someone wears.
Like a costume that is full of color and shine.
The dancers wore bright array for the parade.
Her royal array sparkled under the lights.
Similarattire, finery, regalia, garb, dress
Note
9
noununcountable
Soldiers or things set out in neat, impressive lines, ready for action.
Like players lined up neatly on a field before a game.
The troops stood in full array before the king.
The armies met in battle array at dawn.
Similarformation, order, ranks, line
Oppositedisarray, disorder, confusion
Note
10
nouncountable
A group of ordinary people called up to fight as soldiers.
Like neighbors grabbing tools to protect their village together.
The lord called up the array to defend the town.
Every able man joined the array when war came.
Similarmilitia, levy
Note

Practice

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Origin

It came from Middle English and Anglo-Norman words meaning 'to put in order,' which came from Latin and Germanic roots meaning 'ready' or 'preparation.'