noun
Uncommon
hartley
HAHT-lee
Hartley (noun) means a unit of information equal to the amount contained in one decimal digit (i.e., a choice among ten equally likely outcomes). Example: “A four-digit PIN carries about four hartleys of information.”
noun
1
A unit of information equal to the amount contained in one decimal digit (i.e., a choice among ten equally likely outcomes).
"A four-digit PIN carries about four hartleys of information."
How to use hartley
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA technical unit used in information theory, less common than the "bit."
When to use it
A specialist/technical term, rarely used outside information theory and engineering.
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Word forms
- Plural
- hartleys
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A four-digit PIN carries about four _____ of information.
Etymology
Named after electronics researcher Ralph Hartley (1888-1970), who studied the measurement of information.
Class of 1888
hartley joined the language around 1888.
See the full Class of 1888 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for hartley
See all rhymes for hartley →Frequently asked questions
What does “hartley” mean?
The word “hartley” means a unit of information equal to the amount contained in one decimal digit (i.e., a choice among ten equally likely outcomes). In plain terms, a technical unit used in information theory, less common than the "bit.".
How do you pronounce “hartley”?
“Hartley” is pronounced HAHT-lee (/ˈhɑɹtli/ in IPA).
How do you use “hartley” in a sentence?
Here is “hartley” used in a sentence: “A four-digit PIN carries about four hartleys of information.”
What part of speech is “hartley”?
“Hartley” is a noun.
Where does the word “hartley” come from?
The word “hartley” dates back to around 1888. Named after electronics researcher Ralph Hartley (1888-1970), who studied the measurement of information.
Is “hartley” a common word?
“Hartley” is an uncommon word in modern English.
