Meaning of the word vector in English

What does vector mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

vector

US /ˈvek.tɚ/

UK /ˈvek.tɚ/

a quantity having direction as well as magnitude, especially as determining the position of one point in space relative to another.

Example:

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The displacement of the car can be represented as a vector.

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Force is a vector quantity.

Synonym:

direction magnitude quantity

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

Example:

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Mosquitoes are common vectors of malaria.

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Ticks can act as vectors for Lyme disease.

Synonym:

carrier transmitter host

a virus or plasmid used to transfer genetic material into a host cell.

Example:

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Scientists use viral vectors to deliver genes into cells for gene therapy.

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A plasmid can serve as a cloning vector.

Synonym:

plasmid virus carrier

to guide (an aircraft or missile) in the required direction.

Example:

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Air traffic control will vector the plane to the correct runway.

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The drone was vectored towards the target.

Synonym:

guide direct steer navigate

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