Distributed: meaning, definitions and examples

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distributed

 

[ dɪˈstrɪbjuːtɪd ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

computer science

In computer science, 'distributed' refers to a system that has components located on different networked computers which communicate and coordinate their actions by passing messages to one another. This type of architecture allows for better resource sharing and redundancy.

Synonyms

allocated, scattered, spread.

Examples of usage

  • A distributed database can spread data across multiple locations.
  • Distributed computing enables tasks to be done more efficiently.
  • The distributed ledger technology underlies cryptocurrencies.
Context #2 | Verb

general use

To distribute means to spread out something over a range or area. This can refer to physical objects, information, or resources being shared or divided among different recipients.

Synonyms

allocate, dispense, disseminate.

Examples of usage

  • They distributed the pamphlets across the city.
  • The organization distributed food to those in need.
  • He distributed the workload evenly among team members.

Translations

Translations of the word "distributed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 distribuído

🇮🇳 वितरित

🇩🇪 verbreitet

🇮🇩 terdistribusi

🇺🇦 розподілений

🇵🇱 rozdzielony

🇯🇵 分散された

🇫🇷 distribué

🇪🇸 distribuido

🇹🇷 dağıtılmış

🇰🇷 분배된

🇸🇦 موزع

🇨🇿 distribuovaný

🇸🇰 distribuovaný

🇨🇳 分布的

🇸🇮 porazdeljen

🇮🇸 dreift

🇰🇿 таратылған

🇬🇪 გაუნაწილებელი

🇦🇿 paylanmış

🇲🇽 distribuido

Etymology

The word 'distributed' originates from the Latin word 'distributus', which is the past participle of 'distribuere', meaning 'to divide and give out'. This word entered the English language around the late 15th century. Originally, it referred to the action of dividing or sharing something among individuals or groups. Over time, its use has evolved, particularly in the fields of technology and computer science, where it describes systems that are not centralized but instead spread out across multiple locations. This reflects the increasing complexity and interconnectivity of modern technological systems, highlighting how they operate as a networked collection of resources rather than a single unified entity.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,913, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.