Incapsulate Meaning: Definition and Examples
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incapsulate
[ɪnˈkæpsʊleɪt ]
Definitions
computer science
To encapsulate means to enclose or contain something within a defined boundary. In computer science, it often refers to the concept of bundling data and methods that operate on that data into a single unit or class, restricting access to some components.
Synonyms
contain, enclose, immure, wrap up.
Examples of usage
- The class encapsulates the properties of a car.
- Encapsulation allows for better data management.
- We encapsulate the functionality in a module.
general usage
In a general sense, to encapsulate means to summarize or condense information or ideas into a compact form. This can be applied in various fields to create a brief representation of more extensive content.
Synonyms
abridge, compress, condense, summarize.
Examples of usage
- You should encapsulate the findings in a report.
- The article encapsulates the main points of the research.
- Can you encapsulate your argument in one sentence?
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, 'capsulation' can refer to a protective layer that encases organisms like bacteria, helping them survive.
- Space capsules, designed to protect astronauts during re-entry, are a practical application of the concept of encapsulating.
- In cognitive science, encapsulation refers to information being processed in isolation from other data.
Pop Culture
- The concept of encapsulation has been used in various sci-fi movies where characters or ideas are stored in high-tech capsules.
- In anime and cartoons, characters often use capsules to capture creatures or objects for safe transport, popularized by shows like 'Dragon Ball'.
- The notion of encapsulating memories has also been explored in films, where characters store experiences in tangible forms.
Literature
- Authors often use metaphorical encapsulation to depict characters’ emotions, much like wrapping feelings in a box.
- Children's books frequently depict characters using jars or boxes to encapsulate their dreams or ideas, conveying the importance of their inner worlds.
- The idea appears in poetry, where emotions or experiences are encapsulated within stanzas, giving form and structure to feelings.
Psychology
- In psychology, encapsulating feelings can help individuals manage emotions by keeping overwhelming thoughts contained.
- The term can refer to the cognitive strategy of enclosing distracting thoughts outside a focus area during tasks.
- Encapsulation is also relevant in therapy, where traumatic experiences are 'encapsulated' to help individuals process them gradually.
Origin of 'incapsulate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'capsula', which means a small box or container.
- It entered English in the 17th century, evolving from the Latin roots to describe the act of enclosing.
- In modern usage, 'capsule' often refers to both physical containers like pills and metaphorical uses, like ideas.
The term 'encapsulate' has its roots in the Latin word 'capsula', which translates to 'a small box' or 'container'. It first appeared in English in the early 20th century, primarily in contexts relating to science and technology. The verb form gained popularity within the fields of computer science and programming in the 1970s as a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming, where it was crucial for data hiding and modular design. The concept of encapsulation became a cornerstone of many programming methodologies, emphasizing the importance of restricting access to certain components while allowing controlled interaction. Over time, the usage has expanded to general contexts where summarizing or containing information is required.