noun Common

array

uh-RAY

Array (noun) means a large, impressive, or organized collection of things. Example: “The buffet offered an array of desserts to choose from.”

noun

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."

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

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 notes

In 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".

Origin: Germanic

Antonyms

disarray

Related Words

mess disorder disarray togetherness

Rhymes for array

ay may day say ray hay lay pay jay way yay nay

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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.

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Words With Germanic Origins

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disarray mess disorder togetherness