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dict

dict

7.7
A way in computer programs to store values under unique keys so you can find them quickly
  • noun
  • /dɪkt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : diccionario
  • Well, we know that looking things up in the dict is constant time, so that's OK.

Examples

  • In programming, a dict is an efficient way to store and retrieve data using key-value pairs.

  • You point out dict, and there's also frame access, the ability to replace get/set attribute methods, and so on.

    Blog text (6)
  • I got dicts faster.

    Blog text (16)
  • If I don't fail, that means that I've matched a pattern and I run the procedure, extend dict and then pass in the pattern in the expression.

  • In Python 2, attributes are passed to the metaclass in a dict without preserving order. We'll also want a base class to work with so we can distinguish class attributes that should be mapped into the row.

    Blog text (7)
  • The developer used a dict to map user IDs to their corresponding profiles for quick access.

  • To enhance performance, it's best to utilize a dict for lookups rather than searching through a list.

Synonyms

dictionary
vsdict
  • Specialized
5 4.3

A part of a program that links a key to a value so the program can find it quickly

is the abbreviated form used informally for the full computing term
data structure
vsdict
  • Specialized
4 3.9

A way to store and organize data in a computer so programs can use it quickly

focuses specifically on storing paired identifiers and values for very fast lookup

How Relational

FileMaker
  • Specialized
1 6.5
file system
4 3.5
dict
  • Specialized
7.7

Surface Forms

dict singular
dicts plural

Etymology

The word dict in computing is short for dictionary, and dictionary comes from the Latin dicere meaning 'to say'. A programming dict is like a little book that gives you the value for each key, so you can find information quickly by 'looking up' the key.