Serializing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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serializing

[ˈsɪə.ri.ə.laɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

computer science

Serializing refers to the process of converting an object or data structure into a format that can be easily stored or transmitted and reconstructed later. This is commonly used in programming and data storage, allowing complex data types to be saved in a simplified structure for easier access.

Synonyms

encoding, flattening, marshalling.

Examples of usage

  • The data is serialized into JSON format for transmission.
  • You need to serialize the object before saving it to the database.
  • Serialization helps in reducing the file size when saving data.
Context #2 | Verb

data processing

In the context of data processing, serializing involves transforming a data structure into a sequence of bytes for efficient storage or transmission. It is essential for applications that require data persistence or network communication.

Synonyms

data formatting, encoding.

Examples of usage

  • The application serializes user session data to maintain state.
  • Serialization allows the app to reconstruct the user's preferences.
  • When sending data over the network, it is first serialized to ensure integrity.

Translations

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Origin of 'serializing'

The term 'serialize' stems from the combination of the word 'serial', which comes from the Latin 'serialis', meaning 'of a series', and 'ize', a suffix used in English to form verbs. The concept dates back to the early days of computer science when developers required a method to convert complex data structures for storage and transmission. Over the years, serialization has evolved alongside programming languages, with many standardized formats like JSON, XML, and Protocol Buffers emerging in the 1990s and 2000s to facilitate interoperability between systems. As data exchange became more crucial for applications, the importance and prevalence of serialization in software development surged, leading to its widespread use in modern programming practices.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,967, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.