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Mutable: meaning, definitions and examples

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mutable

 

[ ˈmjuːtəbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

characteristics

Mutable refers to the capability of change or alteration. In programming, it often describes data structures that can be modified after creation, allowing for flexibility and adaptability. This characteristic is valuable in many contexts where data needs to be updated or transformed.

Synonyms

alterable, changeable, modifiable, variable.

Examples of usage

  • The mutable nature of lists in Python allows for easy item modification.
  • In contrast to immutable types, mutable objects can be changed in place.
  • The mutable state of the variable can lead to unexpected behaviors.
  • Mutable goods can be altered or tailored according to customer preferences.

Translations

Translations of the word "mutable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mutável

🇮🇳 परिवर्तनीय

🇩🇪 veränderlich

🇮🇩 dapat diubah

🇺🇦 змінний

🇵🇱 zmienny

🇯🇵 可変の

🇫🇷 mutable

🇪🇸 mutable

🇹🇷 değişken

🇰🇷 변경 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للتغيير

🇨🇿 proměnlivý

🇸🇰 meniteľný

🇨🇳 可变的

🇸🇮 spremenljiv

🇮🇸 breytanlegur

🇰🇿 өзгермелі

🇬🇪 მიუტაბელური

🇦🇿 dəyişkən

🇲🇽 mutable

Etymology

The word 'mutable' comes from the Latin word 'mutabilis', meaning 'changeable', which is derived from 'mutare', meaning 'to change'. It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages. Historically, 'mutable' has been used in various contexts, from literature to science, to describe things that can easily undergo change. Particularly in the realm of science, the term gained prominence in describing substances that can change states, such as from solid to liquid. The concept of mutability extends beyond mere physical properties; it also describes concepts and ideas that can adapt or evolve over time, reflecting the dynamic nature of life and knowledge. Thus, 'mutable' signifies a fundamental aspect of existence: the inevitability and necessity of change.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,721, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.