Encoder: meaning, definitions and examples

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encoder

[ɪnˈkoʊdər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

data processing

An encoder is a device or software that converts data from one format into another, typically for the purpose of transmission or storage.

Synonyms

coder, converter, transcoder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
encoder	Used to refer to a person or entity that encodes information, particularly in data and media contexts, ensuring that it is properly formatted and prepared for specific uses. The encoder handled the subtitles for the foreign-language film. She works as an encoder, preparing data files for secure transmission.
converter	Used in various contexts to describe a device or software that changes something into a different form or state, often in the realm of file formats, electrical devices, or units of measurement. I used a file converter to change the PDF into an editable Word document. The voltage converter helped me use my laptop overseas.
transcoder	Commonly used in the context of media files, where it refers to the process of converting a file from one format to another, often to ensure compatibility or to reduce file size. Highlights the change from one encoding format to another. The transcoder converted the MKV file to an MP4 format for easier playback. With a powerful transcoder, we can stream videos in multiple formats.
coder	Refers to a person who writes code, or in some cases, the code itself. Typically used in the context of software development and programming. The coder is debugging a new feature for the application. As a coder, I spend most of my day writing Python scripts.

Examples of usage

The video encoder converts the analog video signal into a digital format.
The audio encoder compresses the audio files to reduce the file size.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

electronics

In electronics, an encoder is a device that converts information from one form to another, such as from analog to digital or vice versa.

Synonyms

sensor, transducer, translator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
encoder	Used in the context of digital systems and communication. It refers to a device, circuit, transducer, software program, algorithm or person that converts information from one format or code to another. The encoder translates the video signal into a digital format. This encoder can handle multiple file formats.
transducer	Used in contexts involving the conversion of energy from one form to another. It's often seen in engineering, physical sciences, and related fields. A microphone is a type of transducer that converts sound into an electrical signal. This ultrasound transducer helps in medical imaging.
sensor	Typically used in contexts involving measurement, detection, and response to physical properties like temperature, pressure, or light. It is a device that detects changes in the environment and sends information to other electronics. The motion sensor turned on the lights as soon as someone entered the room. This sensor measures the temperature of the engine.
translator	Used mainly in the context of converting text or speech from one language to another. Can also refer to software designed to convert code from one programming language to another. The translator helped the team communicate with their foreign partners. This programmer worked as a language translator before joining the tech industry.

Examples of usage

The rotary encoder translates the angular position of a shaft into a digital signal.
The optical encoder uses light patterns to encode positional information.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

communication

To encoder means to convert data or information into a code or format that is not easily understood without decoding.

Synonyms

encode, encrypt, translate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
encoder	A device, circuit, or algorithm that converts information from one format to another. Used in various fields like digital communications, video compression, and software development. The video encoder significantly reduced the file size without losing much quality A sophisticated encoder is used in this application to convert analog signals to digital
encrypt	When you want to secure information by converting it into a code that prevents unauthorized access. Often used in the context of cybersecurity and data protection. You should encrypt this sensitive data before storing it on the server The emails were encrypted to protect them from prying eyes
encode	When you want to convert data into a different format using a specific algorithm, often for efficiency in storage or transmission. The program needs to encode the video into a more compressed format To send this text file via email, you should encode it in base64
translate	When you want to convert text or speech from one language to another. She needs to translate the document from French to English Google Translate can help you translate this phrase

Examples of usage

The spy encoded the message to keep it secure.
The encryption software encodes sensitive information before transmission.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the prefix 'en-', meaning 'to cause to be in', combined with 'coder', relating to the act of coding.
Its roots link back to the word 'code', which has Latin origins referring to 'a book or document'.

Technology

In digital communications, encoders translate audio and video into data packets that can be transmitted over the internet.
Encoders are crucial in video streaming; they compress data to make it easier and faster to send, reducing loading times.

Science

In genetics, an 'encoder' refers to segments of DNA that encode specific proteins, instructing cells on how to function.
Biological 'encoders' can play a role in how organisms adapt to their environments by controlling the traits that are expressed.

Psychology

Humans employ mental encoding to store memories, using techniques like visualization or association to retain information.
Understanding how our brains encode experiences can help enhance learning methods and memory retention.

Media and Art

In film, a camera acts as an encoder that captures scenes and translates them into a visual format viewable by audiences.
Musical encoders are involved in transforming tunes into digital formats, making it possible to share music across various platforms.

Translations

Translations of the word "encoder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 codificador

🇮🇳 एन्कोडर

🇩🇪 Encoder

🇮🇩 enkoder

🇺🇦 енкодер

🇵🇱 enkoder

🇯🇵 エンコーダー

🇫🇷 encodeur

🇪🇸 codificador

🇹🇷 kodlayıcı

🇰🇷 인코더

🇸🇦 مُرَمِّز

🇨🇿 enkodér

🇸🇰 enkodér

🇨🇳 编码器

🇸🇮 kodirnik

🇮🇸 kóðari

🇰🇿 энкодер

🇬🇪 ენკოდერი

🇦🇿 enkoder

🇲🇽 codificador

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,449, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22446 backwater
22447 adjuster
22448 eruptive
22449 encoder
22450 drugged
22451 overburdened
22452 hinting
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