Type Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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type
[taɪp ]
Definitions
computer programming
A fundamental data type provided by a programming language that defines the data format and operations that can be performed on it.
Synonyms
data type, datatype, variable type.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| type |
More general and can refer to categories or classifications in various fields, not strictly limited to programming.
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| data type |
Used specifically in the context of computer science and programming to describe various kinds of data that can be stored and manipulated in code.
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| datatype |
Alternative spelling of 'data type', used interchangeably, with the same meaning. Commonly seen in programming documentation and code.
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| variable type |
Refers specifically to the type of data that a variable can hold in programming languages.
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Examples of usage
- In Python, 'int' is a built-in type used to represent integers.
- The 'string' type in C++ is used to store sequences of characters.
personality
A category or classification of people based on their common characteristics, behaviors, or traits.
Synonyms
category, classification, kind.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| type |
General use to indicate a particular kind, often interchangeable with 'kind'.
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| category |
Used when grouping similar items under a specific label or within a system.
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| classification |
More formal and scientific use, often related to systematic arrangement based on specific criteria.
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| kind |
General and informal use, often interchangeable with 'type', sometimes to denote a more personal or qualitative differentiation.
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Examples of usage
- She has a very outgoing type of personality.
- What type of person are you looking to hire for this position?
typewriting
To write something using a typewriter or a keyboard.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| type |
Used for describing the action of pressing keys on a keyboard to produce text.
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| write |
Used for composing text, whether by typing on a computer or writing by hand. It can also refer to creating code or data in a program.
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| key |
Refers specifically to pressing a key on a keyboard or a button on another device.
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| input |
Used when referring to the action of entering data into a system, often implying more general data entry beyond text.
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Examples of usage
- He typed the report on his laptop.
- I need to type up this document before the meeting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- In computing, there are different types of data (like text, image, or sound) that tell the computer how to handle the information.
- The QWERTY keyboard layout was designed to reduce jamming in typewriters by separating frequently used letter pairs.
- Typing speed is often measured in words per minute (WPM), with average typing speeds around 40-60 WPM.
Literature
- In literature, 'type' can refer to archetypes, which are common character patterns such as the hero or the mentor.
- Genres of literature classify works into types, like fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama.
- Certain types of narrative structures, such as the hero's journey, are prevalent in storytelling across cultures.
Psychology
- Psychology categorizes personality into types, like introverted or extroverted, to help understand behavior.
- The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) sorts people into 16 different personality types based on their preferences.
- Research in type theory suggests that understanding your type can improve communication and relationships.
Pop Culture
- In video games, 'character types' often dictate the skills and abilities players can use, enhancing gameplay variety.
- Movies can be categorized into types like action, horror, or comedy, influencing audience choices and marketing.
- Social media platforms allow users to express certain 'types' of content, such as memes, vlogs, or educational posts.
Origin of 'type'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Greek 'typos', meaning 'impression' or 'mark'.
- In the late 14th century, it first appeared in English to refer to a printed letter or character.
- The word has evolved from meaning a physical impression to incorporating digital and electronic contexts.
The word 'type' originated from the Latin word 'typus', which in turn came from the Greek word 'typos' meaning 'a blow, mark, impression'. Over time, the meaning of 'type' evolved to include various senses related to classification, printing, and computing. Today, 'type' is commonly used in the fields of programming, personality assessment, and typewriting.
See also: prototype, subtype, typeface, types, typesetting, typewriter, typical, typify, typing, typist, typography.