datum

[ dey-tuhm, dat-uhm, dah-tuhm ]

noun

, plural da·ta [dey, -t, uh, dat, -, uh, dah, -t, uh] da·tums

1. a single piece of information, as a fact, statistic, or code; an item of data.
2. Philosophy.
   1. any fact assumed to be a matter of direct observation.
   2. any proposition assumed or given, from which conclusions may be drawn.
3. Also called sense datum. Epistemology. the object of knowledge as presented to the mind. Compare ideatum.
4. Surveying, Civil Engineering. any level surface, line, or point used as a reference in measuring elevations.
5. Surveying. a basis for horizontal control surveys, consisting of the longitude and latitude of a certain point, the azimuth of a certain line from this point, and two constants used in defining the terrestrial spheroid.

datum

/ ˈdeɪtəm; ˈdɑːtəm /

noun

1. a single piece of information; fact
2. a proposition taken for granted, often in order to construct some theoretical framework upon it; a given See also sense datum

Usage Note

See data.

Word History and Origins

Origin of datum¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Latin: “a thing given,” neuter past participle of dare “to give”

Word History and Origins

Origin of datum¹

C17: from Latin: something given; see data

Example Sentences

The 50-page report obtained by Science says the scientist failed to turn over to the panel “even a single datum or notebook in response to any allegation” and cites “Wang’s inability or unwillingness to provide primary research materials to this investigation” as a “deep source of frustration.”

From Science Magazine

Seen as corrupt and self-serving, the parliament has an approval rating of only 11%, according to pollster Datum.

From Reuters

The heavily fragmented unicameral Congress is loathed - with an approval rating of just 11%, according to pollster Datum.

From Reuters

“The horizontal buildings and concrete walls are a datum against which the landscape can be seen,” Mr. Williams said.

From New York Times

His approval ratings have dipped to 19%, a record low according a Datum poll published on Thursday.

From Reuters

Related Words

• accomplishment
• action
• case
• circumstance
• data
• evidence
• experience
• factor
• incident
• information
• performance
• phenomenon
• statistic