Computer Science

A person or organization that receives professional services or advice, typically for a fee. In business contexts, a client is the beneficiary of a service provider’s work and forms a client–vendor relationship that may be ongoing or project-based.

Closure is the act or process of closing something or bringing an end to a situation, project, or relationship. It denotes finality, resolution, and the cessation of uncertainty. In practice, closure can be emotional, legal, or physical, marking a definitive end rather than a continuation.

Compliance refers to the act or process of conforming to a rule, standard, or requirement. It implies adherence to laws, guidelines, or internal policies. In practice, it can denote the state of being obedient to a set of rules or norms within an organization or system.

Cryptography is the practice of constructing and analyzing protocols that prevent third parties from reading private messages. It involves algorithms, keys, and mathematical techniques to secure information, ensure confidentiality, and verify authenticity. In everyday use, it refers to the study and application of coded communications in security, privacy, and digital systems.

Data is a plural noun referring to factual information collected for analysis, reference, or decision-making; in common usage, it often functions as a mass noun meaning information in general. The term spans formal and everyday contexts, from scientific datasets to trading data, and its pronunciation and plural behavior can vary by region and register.

Database (n.) a structured collection of data, typically stored electronically and accessible for querying and analysis. In computing, a database is organized to support efficient storage, retrieval, and management of information, often via a database management system. It can refer to a single database or the broader field of data systems and storage architectures.

Distributed is an adjective describing something allocated, spread, or granted over an area or among recipients; in technology, it refers to systems where components operate across multiple locations. It can also mean dispersed or shared across a network. The term often appears in contexts like distributed computing, distributed leadership, or distributed data. 2-4 sentences with focus on core meaning for practical use (50-80 words).

Encryption is the process of encoding information to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring confidentiality and security. It involves transforming readable data into unreadable ciphertext using algorithms and keys, then reversing the transformation for authorized users. In computing and communications, encryption protects privacy, integrity, and authenticity of data across networks and storage systems.

Entropy is a noun describing a measure of disorder or randomness in a system, often used in thermodynamics and information theory. It quantifies the number of microscopic configurations consistent with a macroscopic state, and tends to increase as systems evolve toward more probable states. In everyday use, it signals a tendency toward less order and predictability.

Error is a noun referring to a deviation from accuracy or correctness, or a fault in a process, judgment, or computation. It also denotes a mistake made due to misjudgment or faulty data. In computing, it can mean a message indicating an abnormal condition. The term emphasizes outcome gaps rather than intent.

Ethernet is a family of computer networking technologies used to build local area networks and connect devices within a limited area. Typically featuring cables and standardized protocols, Ethernet enables data transmission at various speeds. The term originally referred to the medium itself, then broadened to include the technologies and standards that govern network communication.

Exception is a noun referring to a person or thing that is not included in a general rule or that is not typical. It also denotes a case or instance that differs from a general statement or standard. In logic or programming, an exception represents an error or special case that alters normal flow or handling.

Float (noun) refers to something that stays on the surface of a liquid, or the act or state of remaining suspended or buoyant, often used in contexts like buoyancy, flotation devices, or a leisurely motion. It can also describe a plan or idea that is not finalized yet. In specialized senses, it can mean a light, buoyant feeling or a float in a parade. Usage emphasizes gentle buoyancy and surface-level levitation.

Inheritance is a noun referring to something received from a predecessor, such as property, traits, or a legacy. It also denotes the act of receiving such assets or characteristics through inheritance laws or genealogy. The term encompasses both tangible assets and intangible traits passed down within families or legal contexts.