Lattice: meaning, definitions and examples

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lattice

 

[ ˈlatɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

structure

A structure consisting of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened together with square or diamond-shaped spaces left between, used typically as a screen or fence or as a support for climbing plants.

Synonyms

grid, mesh, trellis.

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Word Description / Examples
lattice

Primarily used in architecture and construction to describe a structure made of interlaced strips. Often found in fences, windows, and climbing plant supports.

  • The garden gate was adorned with a beautiful wooden lattice.
  • She installed a lattice on her balcony to grow ivy.
grid

Most commonly used in contexts involving layout, organization, and structure. Found in urban planning, electricity networks, and data worksheets.

  • The city streets were laid out in a neat grid.
  • Make sure to align the text boxes to the grid in your design software.
mesh

Typically refers to material made from interconnected metal, plastic, or other flexible strands. Used in contexts like screens, netting, and digital graphics.

  • The windows were covered with a fine wire mesh to keep insects out.
  • She wore a mesh top over a solid tank.
trellis

Specifically used in gardening and horticulture to support climbing plants. Often made of wood or metal, forming a framework for vines and other climbing vegetation.

  • He built a trellis for the roses to climb on.
  • The grapevines grew vigorously on the garden trellis.

Examples of usage

  • An iron lattice supported the ceiling.
  • The house was surrounded by a lattice fence.
  • The vines grew up the lattice on the side of the house.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

A regular repeated three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a metal or other crystalline solid.

Synonyms

framework, grid, network.

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Word Description / Examples
lattice

See previous lattice entry.

framework

Use 'framework' when describing a basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text. Often used in abstract or academic contexts.

  • The professor presented a new theoretical framework for understanding human behavior.
  • A metal framework supports the building.
network

Use 'network' when referring to an interconnected group of people, systems, or structures, often used in technology, social, or communication contexts.

  • He built a vast professional network over the years.
  • The computer network needs maintenance.
grid

Use 'grid' in contexts where there is a pattern of regularly spaced horizontal and vertical lines, like in city planning, electricity networks, or data organization.

  • The city's streets are laid out in a grid pattern.
  • The electrical grid covers the entire country.

Examples of usage

  • The crystal structure can be visualized as a lattice of spheres.
Context #3 | Noun

computing

A structure of crossed bars or strips, typically arranged to form a diagonal pattern of open spaces between the strips.

Synonyms

framework, grid, matrix.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lattice

Commonly used when talking about a structure consisting of a criss-cross pattern or in scientific contexts such as physics or chemistry. Often associated with ornate, decorative structures.

  • The garden fence had an intricate lattice design.
  • The crystal structure formed a perfect lattice.
matrix

Frequently used in mathematical, technological, or organizational contexts to refer to an array of elements arranged in rows and columns or a complex organizational structure.

  • The data was organized in a matrix for easier analysis.
  • She navigated the corporate matrix skillfully.
grid

Best suited for referring to networked systems, especially in urban planning, maps, or computer science. Involves a network of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines.

  • The city streets were laid out in a grid pattern.
  • Engineers designed the power grid to be highly efficient.
framework

Ideal for structural supports, conceptual structures, or systems that provide foundation and stability. Often used in architecture, project planning, or theoretical models.

  • The framework for the new building was completed last week.
  • Her research provided a solid framework for future studies.

Examples of usage

  • The data is stored in a memory lattice.

Translations

Translations of the word "lattice" in other languages:

🇵🇹 treliça

🇮🇳 जाली

🇩🇪 Gitter

🇮🇩 jeruji

🇺🇦 решітка

🇵🇱 kratownica

🇯🇵 格子 (kōshi)

🇫🇷 treillis

🇪🇸 enrejado

🇹🇷 kafes

🇰🇷 격자 (gyeokja)

🇸🇦 شبكة

🇨🇿 mříž

🇸🇰 mriežka

🇨🇳 格子 (gézi)

🇸🇮 mreža

🇮🇸 rimlagrind

🇰🇿 тор

🇬🇪 ბადის

🇦🇿 reşotka

🇲🇽 enrejado

Etymology

The word 'lattice' originated from the Old French word 'lattis', which meant 'a lattice'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. The concept of using lattice structures is ancient, with examples found in various architectural and artistic forms throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,984 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.