noun
array
uh-RAY
noun
1
A large, impressive, or organized collection of things.
"The buffet offered an array of desserts to choose from."
"The store displayed a whole array of smartphones on the counter."
2
In computing, a data structure that stores a set of elements, usually accessed by numbered position.
"The program stores each user's score in an array."
verb
1
To arrange or display things in order, or to dress someone elaborately.
"Troops were arrayed along the ridge before the battle."
How to Use Array
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA wide, organized collection of things — or, in programming, a list-like structure for storing data.
Common pairings
array of options
wide array
array of colors
Word Forms
arrayed past tense, arrays plural, arrays singular
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The buffet offered an _____ of desserts to choose from.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman arraier ("to put in order"), tracing back to a Germanic word meaning "ready, prepared".