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Delimited Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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delimited

[dɪˈlɛmɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

data processing

Delimited refers to the use of specific characters or symbols to mark boundaries within a data set. It is commonly used in programming and data management to indicate where one piece of data ends and another begins. For example, in a comma-separated values (CSV) file, commas act as delimiters separating different data fields. This allows for structured data to be easily parsed and processed by computer programs. Delimitation is crucial for ensuring data integrity and accessibility in various applications.

Synonyms

bounded, segmented, separated.

Examples of usage

  • The CSV file is delimited by commas.
  • In programming, use a semicolon as a delimited separator.
  • The text was delimited to facilitate analysis.
  • She used a tab-delimited format for her data.
  • The delimited string was easily converted into an array.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematical contexts, delimited can describe values confined within certain parameters, often seen in set theory.
  • Graphs can be delimited by axes to define the area being analyzed.

Computer Science

  • In programming, 'delimited' often refers to data that is separated by symbols, such as commas in CSV files.
  • Delimiters help software understand where one piece of information ends and another begins.

Literature

  • Authors often delimit themes in their works, marking clear distinctions between different narrative arcs.
  • In poetry, lines can be delimited by structure, indicating pauses and shifts in meaning.

Cultural Context

  • Delimiting is significant in legal contexts, where boundaries define property lines and rights.
  • In geography, countries are delimited by borders, reflecting political and historical agreements.

Origin of 'delimited'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'limitar', meaning 'to limit or bound'.
  • The prefix 'de-' means to remove or reverse, which when combined with 'limited' implies setting definite boundaries.

The term 'delimited' originates from the root word 'limit', which comes from the Latin 'limitare', meaning 'to bound or enclose'. The prefix 'de-' suggests the action of establishing boundaries or separating different components. In the field of computer science and data processing, the use of 'delimited' took shape in the mid-20th century with the rise of programming languages and data management systems that required efficient ways to organize and parse data. As technology evolved, the concept of using delimiters became standard practice for formatting and sharing data structures, leading to the widespread use of the term in various domains, including databases and text processing. The popularity of formats like CSV and TSV (tab-separated values) further solidified the importance of delimited data in the digital era.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,364, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.