# DAS

/ˈdæs/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/das
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. computing storage

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

Stands for Direct-Attached Storage. It is a digital storage device, like a hard drive, that is connected directly to a computer rather than through a network.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Direct-Attached Storage. Refers to digital storage directly connected to a computer or server without a storage network (SAN or NAS) in between.

- The server uses a DAS for faster data access instead of the company network.
- For high-performance video editing, the workstation was configured with a high-capacity DAS to minimize latency during large file transfers.

Usage: Usually functions as an uncountable noun or a modifier before another noun.

Teaching tip: Learners in IT should distinguish this from NAS (Network Attached Storage).

### 2. data collection system

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

Stands for Data Acquisition System. It is a set of tools used to collect information from the real world, like temperature or speed, and turn it into computer data.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Data Acquisition System. A system designed to convert physical conditions into digital signals for processing and analysis.

- The engineers set up a DAS to monitor the bridge's vibrations during the storm.
- The laboratory upgraded its DAS to ensure higher sampling rates during the aerodynamic testing of the new wing prototype.

Usage: Often used with the definite article 'the DAS'.

Teaching tip: Commonly used in engineering and laboratory contexts; sometimes abbreviated as DAQ.

### 3. military defense

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

Stands for Defensive Aids System. It is a system on military aircraft or vehicles that detects and protects against incoming threats like missiles.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Defensive Aids System. An integrated suite of equipment designed to protect a platform from attack, typically including sensors and countermeasures.

- The pilot relied on the DAS to detect the incoming missile.
- Modern fighter jets are equipped with a sophisticated DAS that automatically deploys flares when a heat-seeking threat is detected.

Usage: Commonly used in aviation and defense industry contexts.

Teaching tip: This is a highly specialized term; learners will likely only encounter it in military or aerospace literature.

## Examples

- The engineers installed a new DAS to monitor the engine temperature.
- During the flight test, the DAS recorded thousands of data points per second to evaluate the wing's structural integrity.
- Modern medical facilities rely on a high-speed DAS to integrate real-time patient vitals from multiple bedside monitors into a centralized electronic health record system for immediate analysis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.