Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A surname: "Hollerith" refers to the surname of Herman Hollerith, an American inventor.
   • An inventor's name: Specifically, it denotes Herman Hollerith, known for his pioneering work in data processing.

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The term is used almost exclusively to refer to the historical figure Herman Hollerith or concepts directly derived from his work.
  • It is typically used in historical, technological, or biographical contexts.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Hollerith developed a revolutionary tabulating machine.
  • The Hollerith code was used for early data processing.

Advanced Usage

• "Hollerith system": Refers to the specific method of encoding alphanumeric data on punched cards.
  • The 1890 U.S. census was processed using the Hollerith system.
• "Hollerith machine": Denotes the electromechanical tabulating machines invented by Herman Hollerith.
  • A Hollerith machine automated the sorting of census data.

Variants and Related Words

• Hollerith code (n): The specific encoding system representing data as holes in punched cards.
  • The Hollerith code used 12 rows per column.
• Hollerith tabulator (n): Another term for the Hollerith machine.
  • The Hollerith tabulator read data from punched cards.

Synonyms

• Herman Hollerith: The full name of the inventor.
• Punched-card system inventor: A descriptive synonym.

Related Terms and Context

• Punched card (n): The physical medium used in Hollerith's system.
  • Data was stored on punched cards.
• Tabulating machine (n): The general category of device Hollerith invented.
  • The tabulating machine was a precursor to the computer.

Noun

1. United States inventor who invented a system for recording alphanumeric information on punched cards (1860-1929)