What does serialisation mean?
Serialisation is the conversion of data or information into an ordered sequence that can be stored, transmitted, or processed. In computing, it commonly refers to turning structured data into a format such as JSON, XML, or a byte sequence, although it can also mean arranging the elements of a larger system into a defined order. The word is associated with precision, efficiency, and technical formality, but it can also carry a more general sense of imposing a sequence on events or actions. This broader meaning is less common in everyday speech than the computing sense. British English generally uses serialisation, while American English generally uses serialization. The term is useful wherever order matters: serialisation determines how information is represented and therefore how reliably it can be transferred, interpreted, and reconstructed by another system.
nounThe process of converting data or other information into a sequential form suitable for storage, transmission, or processing. More broadly, it means arranging items or events in an ordered series.
- The process of converting data or information into a sequential form for storage, transmission, or processing.
- The process of arranging items, events, or actions in an ordered series.
"The library handles the serialisation of large data sets before sending them over the network."
"The serialisation of JSON responses reduced the amount of data sent to the browser."
"The novel's serialisation of events made its chronology unusually difficult to follow."
Used when referring to multiple processes or instances of converting information into sequential form.
"The engineers compared different serialisations of the dataset."
Serialisation is how sprawling data learns to travel in a straight line.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does serialisation come from?
Serialisation comes through the English word serialize, formed from the Latin series, meaning a row, chain, or succession, together with the suffix -ize. The related English words series, serial, and seriate reflect the same Latin root and its idea of ordered succession. The noun serialisation was developed from serialize by adding the suffix -ation, indicating the process or result of making something serial.
Related word forms
How serialisation is actually used
The word is primarily formal and technical, especially in computing, data processing, and communications. It is spelled serialisation in British English and serialization in American English.
Easily confused with serialisation
Serialisation is the British spelling; serialization is the American spelling, and both words have the same meaning.