Meaning & Definition of word "Sample"

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    Sample

    /ˈsæmpl/

    noun:

    • 1. A portion of a larger whole, intended to show the quality or nature of the whole.
      • Example: The company provided a sample of the new product for customers to try before the official launch.
    • 2. A small part or quantity intended to represent the whole.
      • Example: The researcher collected a sample of water from the lake for testing.
    • 3. A specimen or example for determining characteristics or qualities.
      • Example: The doctor took a sample of blood to conduct further tests.

    verb:

    • 1. To take or use as a sample.
      • Example: The team decided to sample the responses from the first 100 participants.
    • 2. To give or provide a small part of something for examination.
      • Example: The bakery will sample their new flavor of cookies at tomorrow’s event.
    • 3. To take a sample from a population for statistical analysis.
      • Example: To understand public opinion, the organization will sample voters before the election.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'essample', from Latin 'exemplum', meaning 'example'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    sample size:

    The number of observations in a sample.

    sample rate:

    The frequency at which a sample is taken in digital audio.

    sample space:

    The set of all possible outcomes in a statistical experiment.

    Related Words

    specimen:

    An individual or part representative of a group.

    exemplar:

    A model or pattern to be copied.

    model:

    A standard or example for imitation.

    Slang Meanings of sample

    Meaning: A quick test or trial of something.

    Example Sentence: Let's do a sample run before the big launch.

    Meaning: To take a taste or experience.

    Example Sentence: He decided to sample the local cuisine.