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Traversal: meaning, definitions and examples

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traversal

 

[ trəˈvɜːrsl ]

Noun
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'traversal' originates from the Middle English term 'traversen', which derives from the Old French 'traverser', meaning 'to cross'. The French term comes from the Latin 'transversare', a compound of 'trans-' meaning 'across' and 'versare' meaning 'to turn'. Over time, 'traversal' evolved to characterize not only physical crossing but also the systematic process of moving through structures or systems, especially in computing. This broader application reflects the concept of navigating through data structures, which has become essential with the rise of computer science. Today, 'traversal' is commonly associated with algorithms and data manipulation, signifying its significance in the digital age.

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.