Cache Meaning and Definition
Cache
Pronunciation
/ˈkeɪʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A cache is a hidden repository of data, such as images or text, that is stored on a user’s device for faster access or repeated use. It is often used in computer systems, networks, and applications to improve performance and reduce latency.
Examples
- The website stores images in a cache to improve page load times.
- The browser clears its cache to free up disk space.
Synonyms
- Repository
- Store
Antonyms
- Mainframe
- Database
Etymology
The word “cache” comes from the French word “cacher,” meaning “to hide.” It was originally used to refer to hidden stores of food or supplies in caves or other remote locations.
Usage Notes
Cache is often used in technical contexts, such as computer science or networking, but it can also be used in more everyday contexts, such as referring to a hidden stash of snacks or treasures.
Cultural References
The concept of caching has appeared in popular culture, such as in films like “Tron” (1982) and “The Matrix” (1999), where characters use caches to access hidden information.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
In computing, the phrase “clear the cache” is commonly used to refer to deleting stored data.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words include “repository,” “store,” and “archive.”
Collocations
Cache is often used in combination with other words, such as “browser cache,” “disk cache,” or “system cache.”
Frequency of Use
Cache is a relatively common term in technical and computing contexts, but it may be less well-known outside of these areas.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of cache include “cash,” “cach,” and “cacheing.”