What does vectorize mean?
To vectorize is to convert information into a form that can be represented by vectors, or to express data through vector coordinates. The process is common in computing, mathematics, and digital imaging: text may be vectorized as a sequence of numerical values, while a bitmap image may be vectorized as paths and shapes. The verb is transitive and usually describes a deliberate operation performed by software, a machine, or, less often, a person. “Vectorized” and “vectorization” are common derived forms. In general English, the word is specialized and technical rather than formal or informal; British and American usage differ mainly in spelling, with vectorise and vectorisation common in British English. Although it can sound computational, the underlying idea is older and simpler: to translate something into a system of directed magnitudes or ordered components.
verbTo convert something into vector form; to express or represent data as a vector or collection of vectors.
- To convert information or an object into vector form, especially by representing it with mathematical vectors.
"The software vectorizes the scanned lettering so that each letter can be resized without losing clarity."
"The search engine vectorizes each document so that related texts can be compared by distance."
"The designer vectorized the logo by tracing its outlines into scalable vector shapes."
To vectorize is to turn text, images, or measurements into numbers that a computer can process geometrically.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vectorize come from?
Vectorize is formed in English from vector plus the verbal suffix -ize. Vector was borrowed from Latin vector, meaning “carrier” or “one who conveys,” a noun derived from vehere, “to carry” or “to lead.” The suffix -ize was used to form verbs denoting the act of converting something into a particular form.
Related word forms
How vectorize is actually used
Chiefly used in computing, mathematics, data processing, and digital imaging. British English commonly uses the spellings vectorise and vectorisation, while American English generally uses vectorize and vectorization.