lattice
UK: ˈlæt.ɪs | US: ˈlæt̬.ɪs
n. a structure of crossed wooden or metal strips, typically arranged diagonally to form a screen or grid
n. (mathematics) a regular, repeated three-dimensional arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a metal or other crystalline solid
n. (computing) a partially ordered set in which every pair of elements has a unique supremum and infimum
The word "lattice" originates from Middle English latis, derived from Old French lattis, which in turn comes from latte (meaning "lath" or "thin strip of wood"). The suffix -ice (or -is) was used to form nouns denoting structures or frameworks. The concept evolved from physical wooden grids to abstract mathematical and computational structures, retaining the core idea of interwoven or ordered patterns.
The garden was enclosed by a decorative wooden lattice.
Crystals have a highly ordered atomic lattice.
The algorithm efficiently traverses the data lattice.
Sunlight filtered through the vine-covered lattice.
The lattice structure provides both strength and flexibility.