Strings Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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strings

[strษชล‹z ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

data processing

A sequence of characters or symbols that are grouped together.

Synonyms

sequence, text, wording.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strings

Use when referring to a series of characters, especially in programming or when talking about types of data. It can also mean a series of things or items connected together.

  • In programming, strings are used to store text.
  • She bought a few strings of colorful beads.
sequence

Use when talking about a specific order in which events, numbers, or objects are arranged or occur.

  • The sequence of events leading up to the accident was unclear.
  • In math class, we learned about the Fibonacci sequence.
text

Use when referring to the written or printed words in a book, article, message, or other written work.

  • She sent him a text message.
  • The text of the novel was beautifully written.
wording

Use when discussing the specific choice of words and expression in a text or speech.

  • He carefully chose the wording of the invitation.
  • The legal document had confusing wording.

Examples of usage

  • We need to manipulate this string to extract the relevant information.
  • The program crashed because of a null pointer exception in the string handling function.
Context #2 | Noun

music

A tightly stretched wire or cord on a musical instrument, producing a note when struck, plucked, or bowed.

Synonyms

cord, strand, wire.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strings

Typically used to refer to thin ropes or threads that can be used to tie or bind things. Common in musical instruments, sewing, and crafts.

  • She replaced the old guitar strings
  • He wrapped the package with strings
cord

Refers to a thicker, stronger type of string or rope. Often used in contexts like electrical cables, clotheslines, or for securing large items.

  • He plugged the lamp into the electrical cord
  • They used a cord to tie the boat to the dock
wire

Typically used to refer to a thin, flexible metal thread or rod. Commonly used for electrical connections, fencing, and crafting.

  • He replaced the old copper wire in the circuit
  • She used wire to create a small sculpture
strand

Implying a single thin length of something, like hair, thread, or fiber. Used when talking about individual pieces or small quantities.

  • A single strand of her hair fell into her face
  • They found a strand of fiber in the fabric

Examples of usage

  • The guitarist tuned the strings before the concert.
  • The violinist played a beautiful melody on the strings.
Context #3 | Verb

manipulation

To adjust or manipulate something in a skillful manner.

Synonyms

arrange, connect, thread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
strings

Commonly used when referring to a series of connected things, especially narrow, flexible materials like threads or wires.

  • He used strings to tie the package.
  • The guitar strings broke during the performance.
thread

Typically used to describe a long, thin strand of material, often used in sewing. Can also refer to the act of passing such a material through a needle or opening, and metaphorically to a series of connected ideas or messages.

  • She threaded the needle carefully.
  • I've lost the thread of the conversation.
connect

Used when discussing the act of linking or joining two or more objects or ideas. Suitable for both physical and abstract connections.

  • Can you help me connect the cables to the TV?
  • The teacher helped the students connect the historical events.
arrange

Often used to describe organizing or putting things in a specific order or pattern. Suitable for planning or scheduling activities.

  • She arranged the flowers in a vase.
  • We need to arrange a meeting for next week.

Examples of usage

  • She carefully strung the lights along the porch railing.
  • The magician performed a trick by stringing the audience along with suspense.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music

  • In music, strings refer to instruments like violins, guitars, and cellos, which create sound through vibrating strings.
  • String ensembles, which include a group of string instruments, have been part of orchestras since the late Renaissance period.
  • The world's oldest known string instrument is believed to be the Lyre of Ur, dating back to 2500 BC in ancient Mesopotamia.

Science and Technology

  • In physics, strings can refer to a theoretical construct in string theory, which suggests that fundamental particles are actually tiny, vibrating strings.
  • Strings are essential in computer programming, representing data type that stores text.
  • Musical strings can be made from various materials like nylon, steel, or gut, each affecting sound quality.

Arts and Crafts

  • In arts and crafts, strings are often used in macramรฉ, a technique for creating decorative items using knotting.
  • Strings can be used in puppetry, connecting puppets to strings allows for motion and performance.
  • Craft activities like friendship bracelets use colorful strings to create beautiful, woven patterns.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, strings play a role in traditional ceremonies; for instance, tying strings can symbolize bonds of friendship or marriage.
  • The story of string figures, like Cat's Cradle, has been passed down through generations as a way to tell tales or create visuals.
  • In many folk traditions, strings have been used in games and storytelling to entertain and educate children.

Origin of 'strings'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'string' comes from the Old English 'stringa', meaning 'to bind or tie'.
  • Historically, the term has been used to refer to anything that can hold things or make sounds.
  • As language evolved, 'string' also adopted meanings in various fields including music and technology.

The word 'string' originated from the Old English word 'streng' which meant a cord, thread, or line. Over time, the meaning expanded to include a sequence of characters in computing and a musical instrument component. The versatility of the word 'string' reflects its long history and diverse usage in various fields.


See also: astringent, string, stringent, substring.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,410 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.