Partition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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partition
[pɑːrˈtɪʃən ]
Definitions
data management
A division or section within a larger structure, especially in the context of data storage and management.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| partition |
Use 'partition' when talking about physically dividing a space or separating parts of a computer's storage. It often implies something that can be put up or taken down.
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| division |
Use 'division' for more abstract separations, such as splitting a group of people, dividing responsibilities, or mathematical operations.
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| section |
Use 'section' when referring to a distinct part of something larger, whether it's a document, a book, a city, or any other entity that can be logically separated into parts.
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| segment |
Use 'segment' to describe a part of something that is typically rounded or cyclical, like parts of an orange or fractions of a market. It implies a smaller part of a whole.
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Examples of usage
- Each partition of the hard drive is allocated for specific types of data.
- The database is organized into different partitions for efficient data retrieval.
computing
To divide or separate a storage device or memory into different sections in order to organize data.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| partition |
Use this when discussing the action of dividing something, often a physical space, into parts. This can apply to rooms, sections of land, or data storage.
|
| divide |
Best used in a general sense when splitting something into parts or groups. It can apply to physical objects, numbers, groups of people, and more.
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| separate |
This word is used when detaching or setting apart one thing from another. It can apply to both physical objects and abstract concepts like ideas or groups of people.
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| allocate |
This word is ideal for situations where resources, time, or tasks are being distributed or assigned for a specific purpose. Often used in business, project management, and financial contexts.
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Examples of usage
- You can partition the hard drive into multiple sections for different operating systems.
- It is important to properly partition the memory to avoid data loss.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Partition played a key role in the history of nations, such as the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, which resulted in significant geopolitical changes.
- In 19th century Europe, partition was often used to describe the division of territories among colonial powers, impacting countless lives and cultures.
- The Berlin Wall is a historic example of a partition that physically and ideologically divided a city for decades.
Mathematics
- In mathematics, a partition refers to breaking down a number into sums of other numbers, which is a fundamental concept in number theory.
- The study of partitions has led to developments in combinatorics, influencing areas such as statistics and computer science.
- In geometry, partition can refer to dividing a shape into smaller sections to calculate area or volume.
Technology
- In computer technology, partitioning a hard drive allows for the separation of data into distinct sections for better organization and management.
- Virtual partitioning can improve performance by isolating applications, giving each its own space without interference.
- Cloud computing often employs partitioning methods to securely separate user data and enhance privacy.
Cultural Impact
- The term 'partition' has cultural significance in literature, often symbolizing separation in society and identity.
- In films and art, the theme of partition explores emotional and historical narratives surrounding division and unity.
- Cultural partitions can be found in customs and practices, where divisions are made between different communities or regions.
Origin of 'partition'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'partitio', which means 'a division'.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to physical divisions.
- The prefix 'part-' links it to other words like 'particle' and 'partake', which also imply separation or involvement.
The word 'partition' originated from the Latin word 'partitio', meaning division or separation. It has been used in various fields such as computing, data management, and architecture to refer to dividing or separating something into parts or sections.
See also: apart, counterpart, impart, multipart, part, partable, partial, partially, participate, particle, particular, parting, partisan, partitive, partly, partner, partook, parts, partway, party.