What does resample mean?
Resample means to take another sample or to regenerate sampled data. Its most familiar use is in statistics and data analysis: researchers resample observations to estimate uncertainty, test the stability of a result, or approximate a sampling distribution that is difficult to study directly. A common method called bootstrap resampling repeatedly draws replacement samples from an observed dataset. In digital media, resampling has a more technical meaning: converting an image, recording, or other signal to a different sampling rate or resolution. The prefix re- is central to the word, distinguishing the action of sampling again from the sample itself. Resampling is valuable because it reveals how much conclusions depend on the particular observations collected. In sound and image processing, it also describes the deliberate conversion of data to meet the requirements of another system or device.
To select a new or additional sample from a population, dataset, signal, image, or other source.
"The analyst resampled the records before rebuilding the model."
In statistical work, resampling often involves drawing repeated samples, sometimes with replacement, to estimate uncertainty or assess stability.
Converted or regenerated through sampling again, especially at a different rate or resolution.
"The resampled audio sounded clear on the new speakers."
This attributive use is especially common in digital audio and image processing.
Resampling lets researchers test whether a conclusion survives repeated changes in the data they happened to collect.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resample come from?
Resample was formed in English by combining the prefix re-, meaning “again,” with sample. The verb sample is based on Anglo-French and Old French forms and was historically connected with the notion of taking an example or specimen. Modern resampling developed once repeated statistical sampling became a standard method of analysis, while the term later also applied to the technical reprocessing of digital signals.
Related word forms
How resample is actually used
The statistical sense is common in academic and technical writing. In digital media, resampling often specifically refers to changing the resolution or sampling rate of an image, sound, or other signal.
Easily confused with resample
A sample is the subset or observation selected, whereas resampling is the act of selecting another such subset or observation.