array

UK: əˈreɪ | US: əˈreɪ

Definition
  1. n. an ordered arrangement or display of items

  2. vt. to arrange or display items in a particular order

  3. n. (computing) a data structure consisting of a collection of elements

Structure
ar <to>ray <prepare, arrange>ar <to>ray <prepare, arrange>
Etymology

The word array traces back to Old French areier, meaning "to prepare or arrange," derived from Latin ad- (to) + red- (back) + -are (verb-forming suffix). Over time, it evolved to signify an orderly arrangement, reflecting its roots in preparation and organization. In computing, it retains this sense of structured order.

Examples
  1. The soldiers stood in a perfect array for inspection.

  2. She arrayed the books neatly on the shelf.

  3. The program uses an array to store the data efficiently.

  4. The store displayed an array of colorful fabrics.

  5. The general arrayed his troops for battle.