hartley
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.”
How to use hartley
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA technical unit used in information theory, less common than the "bit."
A specialist/technical term, rarely used outside information theory and engineering.
Word forms
hartleys plural
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.
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.