# tuple

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tuple
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. computing/programming

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a fixed-size list of items in a computer program that usually cannot be changed after it is created.

For teachers: a data structure consisting of an immutable, ordered sequence of elements, often used to group related data of different types.

- The function returns a tuple containing the user's name and their age.
- In Python, a tuple is defined using parentheses and is preferred over a list when the collection of items must remain constant throughout the program.

Usage: Usually countable; often contrasted with 'lists' which are mutable.

### 2. databases

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a single row of information in a database table.

For teachers: a single row or record in a relational database table, representing a set of related attributes.

- Each tuple in the customer table represents one unique person.
- The database administrator explained that each tuple must have a unique primary key to ensure data integrity across the relational schema.

### 3. mathematics

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Academic

a list of numbers or symbols in a specific order.

For teachers: a finite ordered list or sequence of elements, typically denoted as an n-tuple where n is the number of elements.

- The coordinates of a point in 3D space are written as a tuple of three numbers.
- The vector can be represented as an n-tuple of real numbers within a multi-dimensional coordinate system.

## Examples

- The function returns a tuple containing the user's name and age.
- In the database, each row is treated as a tuple where every field represents a specific attribute of the record.
- By using a tuple instead of a list, the developer ensures that the coordinates remain constant throughout the execution of the script, preventing accidental data corruption.

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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.