Meaning & Definition of word "Sample"

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.