datum
UK: ˈdeɪtəm | US: ˈdeɪtəm
n. a single piece of information or a fact, especially as used in scientific analysis
n. (plural: data) a collection of facts or statistics used for reference or analysis
The word "datum" originates from Latin, where "da" is the root of "dare" (to give), and "-tum" is a neuter past participle suffix. Literally, it means "something given." In classical Latin, it referred to a premise or granted fact. Over time, it evolved into English as a term for a single piece of information, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. The plural form "data" (originally "things given") became more commonly used, often treated as a singular mass noun in modern usage.
Each datum in the study was carefully recorded.
The experiment requires at least one reliable datum to proceed.
Historically, "datum" was the singular form of "data," though usage has shifted.
The survey collected one datum per participant.
In cartography, a datum defines reference points for mapping.