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Glite Dictionary
random memory

random memory

5.7
A part of a computer that stores data for a short time while it runs
  • noun
  • /ˈrændəm ˈmɛməri/
  • Specialized
translation icon : memoria aleatoria
  • Upgrading your system's random memory can significantly improve performance.

Examples

  • All unsaved data is lost when the power goes off because it's stored in random memory.

  • The computer's random memory determines how many programs can run at once.

  • The random memory in my computer is almost full.

  • Can you upgrade the random memory in this laptop?

  • All unsaved data is lost when the power goes off because it's stored in random memory.

  • Upgrading your system's random memory can significantly improve performance.

  • The computer's random memory determines how many programs can run at once.

Synonyms

RAM
vsrandom memory
  • Specialized
27 3.5

Computer memory that stores data for a short time while the computer is on

is the same memory often mentioned by its short abbreviation
random access memory
vsrandom memory
  • Specialized
1 3.7

A fast place in a computer where programs keep data while the computer runs

is the same concept described in simpler wording
random-access memory
vsrandom memory
  • Specialized
3.8

Space inside a computer where programs keep data while running and that is lost when the computer turns off

is identical in function but presented as a hyphenated technical term
read/write memory
vsrandom memory
  • Specialized
4.2

A part of a computer that stores data for a short time the system can read and change while running

focuses on access in any order rather than only on read or write ability

How Fast

memory cache
  • Specialized
1 4.8
random memory
  • Specialized
5.7
solid-state
  • Specialized
1 5.5
hard drive
  • Specialized
106 2.8

Surface Forms

random memory singular
random memories plural

Morphology

random + memory

A B1 learner who knows 'random' (occurring without pattern) and 'memory' (storage) would most likely interpret 'random memory' as memory that is random in content, not as memory that can be accessed in any order. The technical sense ('random-access memory') crucially depends on 'access' and is a lexicalized technical term, so the intended meaning cannot be derived from the given constituents alone.

Etymology

Random memory gets its name from the idea that random means 'in any order' and memory is where a computer keeps data. So, the term came to mean the fast, temporary place a computer uses to hold information while it is running.