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Grid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grid

[ɡrɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

power generation

A grid is a network of transmission lines, substations, and transformers that deliver electricity from power plants to consumers.

Synonyms

network, system, web.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grid

Use 'grid' when referring to a structure made of intersecting lines or for organizing elements in rows and columns.

  • The city streets follow a grid pattern
  • The spreadsheet is organized in a grid for easy data entry
network

Use 'network' when talking about interconnected systems, especially in technology and social contexts.

  • The computers in the office are all connected to a network
  • She has a strong professional network
system

Use 'system' when referring to a set of connected parts forming a complex whole, often used in technical or organizational contexts.

  • The solar system consists of the sun and eight planets
  • The company implemented a new filing system
web

Use 'web' when describing an intricate structure of interconnected elements, often used metaphorically or when referring to the internet.

  • The spider spun a web in the corner of the room
  • She got lost in the web of lies

Examples of usage

  • The electricity grid is crucial for distributing power across the country.
  • Without the grid, it would be challenging to supply electricity to homes and businesses.
Context #2 | Noun

structure

A grid can also refer to a framework of parallel or intersecting lines used as a guide for arranging items, such as in a spreadsheet or a city street plan.

Synonyms

framework, graticule, matrix.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grid

Typically used in general contexts to describe any set of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines, especially to structure data, layout designs, or maps. It is a common term in both everyday language and technical disciplines.

  • We used a grid to organize the seating arrangements for the event.
  • The city's street layout follows a grid pattern.
framework

Used when referring to a supporting structure or underlying system, often in the context of software, theories, or approaches. It conveys the idea of a scaffold that supports or organizes elements.

  • The software was built on a robust framework.
  • This theory provides a useful framework for understanding the problem.
matrix

Commonly used in mathematics, science, and computing to describe a rectangular array of numbers or elements arranged in rows and columns. It can also be used more abstractly to describe complex systems or environments.

  • In linear algebra, a matrix is used to solve systems of equations.
  • The social matrix of the community is complex and multifaceted.
graticule

Mostly used in cartography and other scientific fields to refer to the network of lines, typically latitude and longitude, on maps and globes.

  • The map's graticule helps in pinpointing exact locations.
  • Graticules are crucial for accurate navigation.

Examples of usage

  • The city was designed with a grid layout for easy navigation.
  • The spreadsheet cells are organized into rows and columns forming a grid.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In electrical engineering, a power grid is a network that delivers electricity from producers to consumers, supporting modern living.
  • Grids are essential in graphing mathematics, helping visualize relationships between numbers in a structured way.
  • The concept of a grid in computer science is crucial for managing data efficiently, especially in database management.

Art and Design

  • Grids are a fundamental principle in graphic design, used for aligning elements to achieve balance and harmony in layouts.
  • Many artists, including the famous painter Piet Mondrian, used grids to create abstract works that emphasize simplicity and structure.
  • In architecture, a grid helps in organizing spaces and ensuring proportions are adhered to for aesthetic appeal.

Technology

  • The modern grid pattern dominates user interface design, making digital experiences more intuitive and user-friendly.
  • In gaming, grids are often the basis for movement and strategy, allowing for easier navigation and planning.
  • Advanced technologies utilize grid systems for GIS (Geographic Information Systems), optimizing location-based analysis.

Cultural References

  • Urban planners employ grid designs to create efficient city layouts, influencing how people navigate through space.
  • In film and media, grid patterns often symbolize organization, dominance, or methodical approaches to challenges.
  • Popular board games like chess and checkers use grid systems as their foundation, highlighting strategic thinking.

Origin of 'grid'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'grid' originates from the French word 'grille', meaning 'a grating or screen', reflecting its lined pattern.
  • It first appeared in English text around the late 19th century, relating closely to the advancement of mapping techniques.
  • Grid structures have been used for centuries in city planning, starting with ancient Greek and Roman settlements.

The word 'grid' originated from the Middle English 'gride', which meant a grating or network of crossed bars. It has been used since the 14th century to describe various structures resembling a network or framework.

See also: gridlock, gridlocked.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,109 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.