Sample

/ˈsæmpl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A portion of a larger whole, intended to show the quality or nature of the whole.
The company provided a sample of the new product for customers to try before the official launch.
A small part or quantity intended to represent the whole.
The researcher collected a sample of water from the lake for testing.
A specimen or example for determining characteristics or qualities.
The doctor took a sample of blood to conduct further tests.
verb
To take or use as a sample.
The team decided to sample the responses from the first 100 participants.
To give or provide a small part of something for examination.
The bakery will sample their new flavor of cookies at tomorrow’s event.
To take a sample from a population for statistical analysis.
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

A quick test or trial of something.
Let's do a sample run before the big launch.
To take a taste or experience.
He decided to sample the local cuisine.