Digital

Definition

Digital is an adjective used to describe technology that uses binary code (0s and 1s) to process, store, and transmit information. It contrasts with analog technology and is used widely in computing, electronics, and telecommunications.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (rare, used in technical contexts)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl/
• Respelling: DIJ-ih-tuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl/
• Respelling: DIJ-ih-tuhl

Etymology

The word "digital" originates from the Latin "digitus," meaning "finger" or "toe," which evolved to refer to numbers and counting. By the mid-20th century, it became associated with computing, where information is represented as digits in binary code.

Derivatives

• Digitize (verb)
• Digitization (noun)
• Digitalization (noun)
• Digitalize (verb)
• Digitalism (noun)

Synonyms

• Electronic
• Binary
• Computerized

Antonyms

• Analog
• Manual
• Physical

Usage

The adjective "digital" is commonly used to describe technology, media, and devices that utilize binary systems. For example, "She prefers digital over analog photography." In modern usage, it is broadly applied to virtual and online environments.

Related Terms

• Binary: A numeric system that uses only two digits, 0 and 1, used in computing.
• Virtual: Existing in digital form rather than physically.
• Electronics: The branch of technology dealing with circuits and devices.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to technology that operates using binary code: Describes systems, devices, or data that use binary digits (0s and 1s) to represent information.
  • Example: "Most modern devices are digital rather than analog."
• Involving or related to computers and the internet: Refers to anything pertaining to computing or virtual technologies.
  • Example: "The company has made a complete shift to digital operations."

Noun

• A binary system used in computing (technical context): Refers to the representation of data or information using digital technology.
  • Example: "The transition from analog to digital has transformed the telecommunications industry."