What does interpolator mean?
An interpolator is a program, device, or other mechanism that calculates values between known points. For example, if measurements are available at two times, an interpolator can estimate the value at an intermediate time; a more sophisticated one may use a curve rather than a straight line to estimate those values. Interpolators are important in computer graphics, animation, signal processing, geographic information systems, and scientific measurement. They help transform sparse data into continuous or smoothly varying output, such as animated motion, resized images, or estimated environmental readings. The word is therefore more specific than a general “calculator”: its defining function is to fill the intervals between supplied data points. Although “interpolator” can occasionally refer to a person who carries out interpolation, its dominant modern use is for software or hardware designed to perform the task automatically.
nounA software program or electronic device that performs interpolation by calculating intermediate values between specified data points. It is used especially in computing, graphics, signal processing, and scientific measurement.
- A software program or electronic device that calculates intermediate values between specified data points.
"The graphics engine uses a linear interpolator to determine the positions of objects between successive animation frames."
"A linear interpolator estimated the temperature at 3 p.m. from the measurements taken at noon and 6 p.m."
"The animation package includes a spline interpolator for producing smooth curves through control points."
Used when referring to multiple programs, devices, or systems that perform interpolation.
"The two interpolators produce different estimates because they use different mathematical methods."
An interpolator turns a handful of known positions into the countless in-between positions that make digital animation appear smooth.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interpolator come from?
The word was formed from the English verb “interpolate” with the suffix “-or,” indicating an instrument or device that performs an operation. “Interpolate” comes from Latin interpolare, meaning “to polish up” or “interlace,” formed from inter-, meaning “between,” and polire, meaning “to smooth.” In modern technical use, the original idea of smoothing or modifying something has developed into the calculation of intermediate values.
Related word forms
How interpolator is actually used
This is chiefly a technical term in computing, graphics, mathematics, and signal processing. When it denotes a person, it usually means someone whose work involves interpolation, but the noun most commonly refers to software or hardware that performs the operation.