vector

//ˈvɛktər//
B2Frequency Level 10Technical
Visual representation of vector

Noun

vectorSingular
vectorsPlural
1

A quantity having both magnitude and direction, typically represented by an arrow in mathematics and physics.

In physics, velocity is a vector because it has both speed and direction.

2

An organism, typically an insect, that transmits a disease or parasite from one animal or plant to another.

Mosquitoes are the primary vector for malaria transmission.

3

A course or direction taken by an aircraft.

The pilot adjusted the vector to avoid the storm.

4

In computing, a one-dimensional array of data elements.

The program stores the data in a vector for efficient processing.

Verb

1

To direct an aircraft in flight by radio.

The control tower vectored the plane to a safe landing.