Typecast: meaning, definitions and examples

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typecast

 

[ ˈtaɪpˌkæst ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

computer programming

Typecasting is the process of converting a variable from one data type to another in programming languages. This can be necessary when you need to perform operations on different types of data, such as strings and integers. Proper typecasting ensures that the program operates correctly by handling data types effectively. It helps in avoiding errors associated with type mismatches. This technique is fundamental for functions that require specific data types as input.

Synonyms

casting, conversion, transformation

Examples of usage

  • In Python, you can typecast a string to an integer using int() function.
  • Typecasting a float to an integer will truncate the decimal part.
  • Typecasting may lead to loss of data if not handled properly.
Context #2 | Noun

film industry

Typecasting refers to the repeated portrayal of an actor in the same type of roles across different films or shows. This often occurs when an actor becomes closely associated with a certain character stereotype, making it difficult for them to secure diverse roles. While this can lead to consistent work, it may also limit an actor's versatility and career growth. Some actors embrace typecasting, while others seek to break free from it and diversify their portfolio.

Synonyms

categorizing, labeling, stereotyping

Examples of usage

  • His typecasting as a villain made it hard for him to get leading roles.
  • Many actors face typecasting after a breakout role in a popular film.
  • Typecasting can hinder an actor's career by restricting them to similar characters.

Translations

Translations of the word "typecast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 typecast

🇮🇳 typecast

🇩🇪 typecast

🇮🇩 typecast

🇺🇦 typecast

🇵🇱 typecast

🇯🇵 typecast

🇫🇷 typecast

🇪🇸 typecast

🇹🇷 typecast

🇰🇷 typecast

🇸🇦 typecast

🇨🇿 typecast

🇸🇰 typecast

🇨🇳 typecast

🇸🇮 typecast

🇮🇸 typecast

🇰🇿 typecast

🇬🇪 typecast

🇦🇿 typecast

🇲🇽 typecast

Etymology

The term 'typecast' originated in the early 20th century as a compound of 'type' and 'cast'. 'Type' refers to a category or classification, derived from the Latin word 'typus', which means 'form, figure, or model'. 'Cast', from the Latin 'castare', means to throw or place something in a particular position or role. The word was initially used in the context of theater, describing how actors could be regularly assigned to roles fitting a specific type or character. Over time, this concept expanded into other fields, particularly in programming, where the notion of transforming data types has become crucial. Thus, 'typecast' today encompasses both acting and technical domains, demonstrating how language evolves by adopting and adapting terms from various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,165, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.