array

A group of different things, often arranged so you can see them all.

• An array of flowers covered the table.
• We offer a wide array of courses.
• She admired the colourful array of hats in the window.

How to use it: array of something (The shop sells an array of local cheeses.)

Similar words: range, collection, assortment, selection

Common phrases: array of something, wide array, impressive array, vast array

A numbered collection of values stored together in a computer program.

• The array contains ten numbers.
• We stored the results in an array.
• What happens if an array is empty?

How to use it: array of something (The function returns an array of numbers.)

Common phrases: empty array, array of integers, array element

Clothes and decorations that someone wears, especially fine or impressive ones.

• The queen appeared in splendid array.
• His golden array caught the morning light.
• Guests in festive array filled the great hall.

Similar words: clothing, attire, finery, raiment

Common phrases: splendid array, royal array, in fine array

To put things or people in an ordered arrangement, often ready for use or display.

• She arrayed the cups on a tray.
• The soldiers were arrayed along the ridge.
• Tools lay neatly arrayed beside the workbench.

How to use it: array something in something (We arrayed the chairs in neat rows.); array someone/something against someone/something (They arrayed their forces against the invading army.)

Similar words: arrange, line up, deploy, marshal

Common phrases: array something neatly, array against someone, array in rows

To dress someone in clothes, especially fine ones, and add decorations.

• They arrayed her in white.
• The attendants arrayed the king in ceremonial robes.
• She was arrayed in silk and glittering jewels.

How to use it: array someone in something (They arrayed the child in a silk robe.)

Similar words: dress, adorn, attire

Opposites: undress

Common phrases: array someone in something, array in finery