Stack: meaning, definitions and examples

Repeated in the list, likely a duplicate. Refer to the first 'stack' entry for context and examples.

Often used in an academic or technical context to emphasize the Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) ordering of elements. This term is more formal and might be used in textbooks or detailed technical documentation.

• A LIFO structure is useful for algorithms requiring backtracking.
• Understanding the properties of a LIFO structure is vital for memory management.

Used when specifically referring to the stack in the context of data structures. It emphasizes both the concept and its role in computer science, making it suitable for educational or explanatory scenarios.

• The stack data structure is fundamental in understanding how certain algorithms work.
• In a stack data structure, the most recently added item is the first to be removed.

In computing, 'stack' alone often refers to a specialized data structure that follows the Last In, First Out (LIFO) principle. It is mainly used for handling function calls, expression evaluation, and recursive algorithms.

• The stack is a fundamental data structure in computing.
• They implemented the undo feature using a stack.

The 'memory stack' term is used in computing to describe a region of memory that stores temporary variables created by a function. This is often discussed in system architecture and programming.

• Variables stored in the memory stack are automatically deallocated when the function exits.
• Understanding the memory stack is crucial for optimizing program performance.

In computer science, a 'call stack' is a data structure that stores information about the active subroutines or functions in a program. It is typically used in the context of debugging and understanding program execution.

• The error occurred because the call stack overflowed.
• Let's inspect the call stack to find where the function was called.

Refers to placing things in a neat, often vertical, formation. Can describe both the process and the arrangement.

• He stacked the firewood by the back door.
• There's a neat stack of boxes in the corner.

Can be used to describe the action of things accumulating, often without being neatly arranged. Can sometimes imply clutter or excess.

• The dishes are starting to pile up in the sink.
• The papers on my desk are piling up again.

Used when things are placed in a disorganized, messy pile. Often implies a sense of disorder.

• There was a heap of clothes on his bedroom floor.
• The construction site had a heap of rubble in one corner.

Usually used to describe the action of organizing things into a stack, with an emphasis on the process.

• She carefully arranged the files in a stack on her desk.
• He arranged the plates in a stack before putting them away.