What does serialization mean?
Serialization is the conversion of information into a form that can be stored, transmitted, or reconstructed. In computing, it commonly means transforming objects or structured data into a standardized representation, such as JSON or XML, so that it can move between programs, services, or systems. The reverse process is deserialization. Serialization also has an older literary meaning: the publication of a story, novel, or serial narrative in successive installments. A third, less specialized sense concerns arranging events or experiences in a particular sequence. The word is especially useful for discussions of data exchange, where reliable encoding and decoding are essential. It comes from “serialize,” meaning to arrange or publish in a series, and ultimately from the Latin series, meaning a row, chain, or sequence.
The process of encoding data into a sequence or structured format for storage, transmission, or reconstruction.
"The service handles serialization and deserialization of messages automatically."
Most often used in computing, software engineering, data processing, and digital communications.
The publication of a literary work or story in successive installments.
"The novel appeared first in serialization before being published as a book."
Usually refers to a novel or story released in parts, often in a magazine or newspaper.
Used when referring to multiple encoding processes or instances of publishing a work in installments.
"The library supports several data serializations for export and archival purposes."
Serialization turns structured data into a portable form—so a message can travel across languages, machines, and networks without losing its meaning.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does serialization come from?
The word derives from “serialize,” formed from the Latin series, meaning a row or sequence, together with the suffix -ize and the noun-forming ending -ation. In its older literary sense, serialization referred to publishing a work in installments, while the modern technical sense developed as data began to be encoded for storage and transmission. The concept is closely related to the Latin verb serere, “to join or link,” which also underlies series.
Related word forms
How serialization is actually used
The computing sense is technical and is common in software, data processing, and communications contexts. In British English, the corresponding spelling is usually “serialisation”; the American spelling is “serialization.” The literary sense is traditional and formal.