Enumerating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enumerating

[ษชหˆnjuหmษ™neษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

counting items

Enumerating refers to the act of listing items or counting them one by one. It is often used in contexts where clarity or organization is required, making it easier to reference specific elements in a discussion.

Synonyms

counting, itemizing, listing, numbering.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher is enumerating the rules of the game.
  • In her presentation, she began enumerating the main points of her argument.
  • The report involves enumerating the challenges faced by the team.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In math, enumerating is essential for organizing data, making it easier to analyze and draw conclusions.
  • The practice includes counting finite sets, which helps in understanding concepts like permutations and combinations.
  • Enumerating different outcomes can assist in probability, allowing predictions about events.

Technology

  • In computer science, the term is often used when referring to iterating through data structures, such as arrays or lists.
  • Enumerating also plays a crucial role in programming, where lists or arrays are processed one item at a time.
  • Web developers use enumerating techniques when creating menus, forms, or item lists for better organization.

Cognitive Science

  • Studies show that enumerating items helps improve memory retention, as it makes information more manageable.
  • When people enumerate items, theyโ€™re often able to recall details more accurately than when presented with a large block of text.
  • Enumerating in learning environments can help students break down complex information into simpler, digestible parts.

Art and Literature

  • Writers often use enumeration to create rhythm or emphasis in poetry and prose, such as listing qualities or actions.
  • Some famous speeches use enumeration to highlight points effectively, making them memorable to the audience.
  • In visual arts, artists may enumerate elements in a composition to guide the viewerโ€™s eye through the work.

Origin of 'enumerating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'enumerare', which means 'to count out'.
  • It has been used since the 15th century in English, originally referring to counting in a formal sense.
  • The prefix 'e-' in Latin means 'out', combined with 'numerus' which means 'number'.

The word 'enumerate' originates from the Latin word 'enumerare,' which combines 'e-' (meaning 'out') and 'numerare' (meaning 'to count'). The term was adopted into Middle English in the late 14th century, maintaining its meaning of counting or listing. Over time, 'enumerate' has found its place in various academic fields, particularly in mathematics and computer science, where the process of counting items within a set is essential. As the usage of the term broadened, it began to be applied in different contexts, emphasizing structured or systematic listing, making it a vital term in both formal and informal discourse.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,962, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.