Swapping: meaning, definitions and examples

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swapping

[ ˈswɑːpɪŋ ]

^{Context #1}

computer programming

Swapping is a technique used in computer programming to temporarily exchange the values of two variables. It is commonly used in sorting algorithms to rearrange elements in a specific order.

Synonyms

exchanging, interchanging

Examples of usage

Swapping the values of two variables in a bubble sort algorithm.
Swapping the positions of elements in an array during a quicksort.

^{Context #2}

informal

Swapping can also refer to the act of exchanging or trading items, such as books, clothes, or collectibles, with another person.

Synonyms

exchanging, trading

Examples of usage

Swapping books with a friend to read different genres.
Swapping clothes with siblings to update wardrobes.

^{Context #3}

informal

To swap means to exchange one thing for another, especially informally or as part of a trade.

Synonyms

exchange, trade

Examples of usage

Let's swap our desserts and try something new.
I swapped my old phone for a new model.

Translations

Translations of the word "swapping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 troca

🇮🇳 अदला-बदली

🇩🇪 Tausch

🇮🇩 pertukaran

🇺🇦 обмін

🇵🇱 zamiana

🇯🇵 交換 (こうかん)

🇫🇷 échange

🇪🇸 intercambio

🇹🇷 değişim

🇰🇷 교환 (gyohwan)

🇸🇦 تبادل

🇨🇿 výměna

🇸🇰 výmena

🇨🇳 交换 (jiāohuàn)

🇸🇮 izmenjava

🇮🇸 skipti

🇰🇿 айырбасу

🇬🇪 გაცვლა

🇦🇿 dəyişmə

🇲🇽 intercambio

Word origin

The term 'swapping' originated from the word 'swap,' which has been used since the 13th century. It is derived from the Old Norse word 'sveipa,' meaning 'to sweep' or 'to move quickly.' Over time, 'swap' evolved to encompass the idea of exchanging goods or services. The concept of swapping in computer programming emerged with the need to efficiently rearrange data elements to optimize algorithms.