What does "datum" mean?
Something known or assumed as fact, and is made the basis of reasoning or inference which an intellectual system of any sort (such as knowledge or theoretical framework) is constructed.
Datum
/ˈdeɪtəm/ noun, verb
noun, verb ·Common ·High school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: Something known or assumed as fact, and is made the basis of reasoning or inference which an intellectual system of any sort (such as knowledge or theoretical framework) is constructed.
- Grammar: datum is listed as noun, verb.
- Nearest alternatives: data point, absolute fact, accepted fact, account.
- Useful contrasts: clxv, daricon, data structure component.
- Usage evidence: A tide gauge measures changes in sea level relative to a datum (a height reference).
How to use "datum"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "datum" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "datum" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "datum" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "datum" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
- Use synonyms when you need a softer, stronger, simpler, or more specific word.
- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "datum" is acting as noun, verb in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "data point" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
Review note: Definition pages are checked for source coverage, sentence evidence, synonym support, and editorial insight before they are treated as approval-ready pages. If the evidence is too thin, the page remains available to users but is kept out of the approval-facing indexed inventory.
Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "datum", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 Something known or assumed as fact, and is made the basis of reasoning or inference which an intellectual system of any sort (such as knowledge or theoretical framework) is constructed.
"a datum of experience"
- 2 an item of factual information derived from measurement or research wordnet
- 3 Singular of data: A single recorded phenomenon, especially obtained by scientific work. form-of, singular
"Holonym: data set"
- 4 A point, line, plane, or surface with reference to which positions (such as elevations) are measured or indicated. (Examples include a permanent benchmark in leveling or mean sea level in a topographical survey).
"A geodetic datum is sometimes also called a benchmark."
- 5 A floating reference point, or SLDMB, used to evaluate surface currents in a body of water, and often employed by coastal search and rescue.
Verb
- 1 To provide missing data points by using a mathematical model to extrapolate values that are outside the range of a measuring device.
"Removing the effects of any period of deformation by datuming or flattening selective reflection horizons should restore the structure prior to the datumed horizon, or the amount of deformation above the datumed horizon."
Synonyms
All synonymsExample
"A tide gauge measures changes in sea level relative to a datum (a height reference)."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "datum"?
Common synonyms include: data point, absolute fact, accepted fact, account, acquaintance, actual.
How do you use "datum" in a sentence?
A tide gauge measures changes in sea level relative to a datum (a height reference).
How do you pronounce "datum"?
Pronounced /ˈdeɪtəm/.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin datum (“a given”). Doublet of die.