big data

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. Computers. data sets, typically consisting of billions or trillions of records, that are so vast and complex that they require new and powerful computational resources to process:

   Supercomputers can analyze big data to create models of global climate change.

big data

plural noun

1. computing data held in such large amounts that it can be difficult to process

Word History and Origins

Origin of big data¹

First recorded in 1975–80, for an earlier sense

Example Sentences

Big data or not, if there is no guiding hand pressing landlords to keep prices high, a savvy competitor can always offer lower rents, fill more units, faster, and make more money.

From Slate

They include one of Ukraine’s largest one-way attack drone manufacturers, as well as a big data company which has helped develop software for Ukraine to carry out these strikes.

From BBC

Clara, 21, will also be studying at Imperial College London this coming year, where she will be doing a masters in machine learning and big data in physical sciences.

From BBC

We also cannot underestimate the power of algorithms and big data to manipulate people and encourage the worst emotions and behavior.

From Salon

The ID theft protection firm LifeLock is certainly one of the big winners from the big data breach suffered by Equifax, which exposed the personal information of 143 million Americans to hackers.

From Los Angeles Times