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Traversal: meaning, definitions and examples

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traversal

 

[trəˈvɜːrsl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer science

Traversal refers to the process of visiting each node or element in a data structure, such as a tree or graph, in a systematic manner. Different traversal methods, like depth-first and breadth-first, offer various ways to navigate through the structure while ensuring that all elements are accessed. It is a fundamental concept in computer algorithms and is crucial for tasks such as searching and sorting data. Understanding traversal techniques is essential for programmers working with data structures.

Synonyms

crossing, navigation, pathway.

Examples of usage

  • Tree traversal allows us to access every node in a binary tree.
  • The algorithm uses depth-first traversal to explore all paths.
  • Graph traversal is important for finding connected components.
Context #2 | Noun

general movement

Traversal can also refer to the act of crossing or moving through a physical space or area. It encompasses various forms of movement, whether walking, biking, or driving along a route. In this sense, traversal emphasizes the completion of a course or journey from one point to another. It is often used in the context of outdoor activities or urban navigation.

Synonyms

crossing, journey, passage.

Examples of usage

  • The traversal of the mountainous terrain was challenging.
  • They planned a traversal of the city by bike.
  • The hiking trail offers a scenic traversal through the forest.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'traversare', which means 'to cross over'.
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'traverser', emphasizing the idea of crossing or going through.
  • First recorded use in English dates back to the late 14th century, initially focused on physical movement.

Technology

  • In computer science, 'traversal' often refers to moving through data structures like trees or graphs, essential for many algorithms.
  • Web crawling is a type of traversal where search engines navigate the internet to index web pages.
  • Games often use traversal mechanics to allow players to explore virtual worlds, enhancing engagement and user experience.

Psychology

  • Traversal can also indicate how individuals navigate through thoughts and emotions during problem-solving.
  • Cognitive maps help people visualize their traversal through physical spaces, aiding in memory and navigation.
  • Studies show that the way we traverse space can affect our mental states, with green spaces improving mood and reducing stress.

Nature

  • Animals often demonstrate instinctual traversal behaviors, such as migrating birds crossing vast distances.
  • Spider silk enables traversal across gaps, showcasing a unique adaptation in the animal kingdom.
  • In ecology, the concept of ‘habitat traversal’ describes how species move through and interact with their environments.

Literature

  • In narratives, characters often undertake a physical or emotional traversal that symbolizes personal growth.
  • Books like 'The Lord of the Rings' feature epic traversals across diverse landscapes, reflecting adventure and discovery.
  • Metaphorical traversal is common in poetry, where movement can signify change or transformation.

Translations

Translations of the word "traversal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 travessia

🇮🇳 पार करना

🇩🇪 Durchquerung

🇮🇩 penjelajahan

🇺🇦 перетин

🇵🇱 przejście

🇯🇵 横断

🇫🇷 traversée

🇪🇸 travesía

🇹🇷 geçiş

🇰🇷 횡단

🇸🇦 عبور

🇨🇿 přechod

🇸🇰 prechod

🇨🇳 横穿

🇸🇮 prečkanje

🇮🇸 ferðir

🇰🇿 өту

🇬🇪 გავლა

🇦🇿 keçid

🇲🇽 travesía

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,420, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.