array
9 synonyms and 1 antonym for array, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A large, impressive, or organized collection of things.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A large, impressive, or organized collection of things.
“A dazzling array of colourful scarves hung from the market stall.”
Opposites
How to use array
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
array of options
wide array
array of colors
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman arraier ("to put in order"), tracing back to a Germanic word meaning "ready, prepared".
Full origin of array →Frequently asked questions
What does “array” mean?
The word “array” means a large, impressive, or organized collection of things. In plain terms, a wide, organized collection of things — or, in programming, a list-like structure for storing data.
How do you pronounce “array”?
“Array” is pronounced uh-RAY (/əˈɹeɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “array” in a sentence?
Here is “array” used in a sentence: “The buffet offered an array of desserts to choose from.”
What is the opposite of “array”?
The opposite of “array” — its antonyms — is disarray.
What part of speech is “array”?
Depending on how it is used, “array” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “array” come from?
The word “array” comes from Germanic. From Anglo-Norman arraier ("to put in order"), tracing back to a Germanic word meaning "ready, prepared".
Is “array” a common word?
“Array” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “array” have?
“Array” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large, impressive, or organized collection of things.
What is the difference between an 'array' and a 'list'?
In everyday English an 'array' is a large or impressive collection arranged in an orderly way. In computing an 'array' is a data structure that stores elements accessed by numbered position, usually of fixed size, while a 'list' is often a more flexible structure that can grow or shrink. The right word depends on whether you mean general variety or a specific data type.
What is the difference between an 'array' and an 'arrangement'?
An 'array' emphasises a large, impressive, or organised collection of things on display. An 'arrangement' emphasises the way items are ordered or set out. An array is what you see; an arrangement is how it has been put together.
