Deleting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deleting

[dษชหˆliหtษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

file

To remove or erase data or information from a computer file or system.

Synonyms

clear, erase, remove.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deleting

Best for removing digital information, such as files, text, or data from a computer or device.

  • He was deleting old emails to free up space.
  • Make sure you are deleting the correct file.
clear

Often used to remove items to make space or to reset a setting. Can also mean making something free from obstructions or impurities.

  • Please clear your desk before the meeting starts.
  • We need to clear the cache to fix the issue.

Examples of usage

  • I accidentally deleted the important document from my computer.
  • Make sure you back up your files before deleting anything.
Context #2 | Verb

social media

To remove a post or message from a social media platform.

Synonyms

erase, remove, take down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
remove

Use 'remove' when you want to take something away from a specific location or context, whether it's a physical item or a non-physical concept like a name from a list.

  • Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
  • We need to remove his name from the invitation list.
take down

Use 'take down' when you are talking about pulling down physical items or temporarily discarding something like notes or decorations. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to making someone or something fall.

  • It's time to take down the holiday decorations.
  • I took down some notes during the meeting.
erase

Use 'erase' when you are talking about removing something completely so that there is no trace left. This can refer to digital data or physical items like pencil marks.

  • I need to erase the drawing and start over.
  • Make sure to erase the data on your old hard drive before selling it.

Examples of usage

  • I decided to delete my controversial post to avoid any further arguments.
  • She deleted the comment after realizing it was inappropriate.
Context #3 | Noun

computer science

The act of removing data or information from a computer file or system.

Synonyms

clearing, erasure, removal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deleting

Used primarily in the context of computers and digital environments when you get rid of files, emails, or text.

  • I am deleting old emails to free up space.
  • She deleted the unnecessary files from her computer.
removal

Suitable for any context where something is being taken away or dismissed. It can refer to both physical and intangible objects.

  • The removal of dirt from the carpet was challenging.
  • The removal of the CEO caused a stir in the company.
erasure

A formal term that describes the removal of something written or recorded. Often used in legal and official contexts.

  • The statute calls for the erasure of all personal information after a certain period.
  • Erasure of the chalkboard is necessary before the next class.
clearing

Often used to describe the act of making an area free of items, or emptying content. Can be physical or digital.

  • He is clearing his desk before the meeting.
  • I am clearing my browser history.

Examples of usage

  • The deletion of unnecessary files helped improve the performance of the computer system.
  • The software allows for easy deletion of unwanted items.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In digital contexts, when you hit 'delete,' the item can often be recovered unless it is 'permanently deleted.'
  • Many devices have 'trash' or 'recycle bin' folders where deleted items can temporarily stay before final deletion.
  • Modern operating systems sometimes use 'soft delete' options, allowing users to recover deleted files easily.

Psychology

  • The act of deleting can be linked to feelings of control; people often delete to feel they have power over their digital lives.
  • Thereโ€™s a psychological concept called digital hoarding, where people struggle to delete files, akin to physical clutter.
  • Deleting unwanted memories or negative experiences from social media accounts has been studied as a way to improve mental health.

Art & Literature

  • Writers often delete parts of their work during the editing process, sometimes sparking discussions about lost creativity.
  • In modern art, deletion can symbolize absence; artists may un-create or erase elements to make powerful statements.
  • In literature, themes of deletion reflect characters trying to erase painful pasts or memories that haunt them.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often delete data to hide secrets, creating suspense and intrigue in the plot.
  • Social media platforms frequently feature memes about deleting embarrassing posts or messages.
  • The term โ€˜deleteโ€™ is commonly used in online gaming where players might delete their progress for a fresh start.

Origin of 'deleting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'delete' comes from the Latin 'delere,' which means 'to destroy or erase.'
  • Its use in technology began in the 1980s, as computers became more common.
  • Before 'delete' was standardized, early computing had various terms like 'erase' and 'flush' for the same action.

The word 'delete' originated from the Latin word 'deletere', meaning 'destroy'. It first appeared in English in the 16th century with the sense of 'destroy, erase'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass the idea of removing or erasing data or information, especially in the context of computers and digital technology.


See also: delete, deleter, deleterious, deletion.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,194, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.