vector

noun

(mathematics, physics) A directed quantity, one with both magnitude and direction; the signed difference between two points.

(mathematics, computing) An ordered tuple, originally one representing a directed quantity, but by extension any one-dimensional matrix.

(mathematics) Any member of a (generalized) vector space.

(programming) A kind of dynamically resizable array.

(aviation) A chosen course or direction for motion, as of an aircraft.

(epidemiology) A carrier of a disease-causing agent.

(molecular biology) A DNA molecule used to carry genetic information from one organism into another.

(sociology) A person or entity that passes along an urban legend or other meme.

(psychology) The way in which the eyes are drawn across the visual text.

(psychology) A recurring psychosocial issue that stimulates growth and development in the personality.

(history) Forces, developments, phenomena, processes, systems, etc. which influence the trajectory of history (e.g. imperialism)

(computing, operating systems) A memory address containing the address of a code entry point, usually one which is part of a table and often one that is dereferenced and jumped to during the execution of an interrupt.

(computer graphics, attributive) A graphical representation using outlines; vector graphics.

verb

To set (particularly an aircraft) on a course toward a selected point.

(computing) To redirect to a vector, or code entry point.

Roots

veherevect- · Latin · carry, convey

Synonyms for vector

virusn

Synonyms & related words for vector

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of vector — including virus. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to vector

Explore words related to vector — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include vectorization, eigenvector, orthonormal, raster, isogon, covariant, acnode, equilibrant. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for vector

Common synonyms for vector include virus — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does vector come from?

The word vector breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root vect-, from Latin vehere (“carry, convey”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.