random access

¹

noun

1. the capacity of a videodisc or compact disc player that allows the user to select and replay any portion without starting at the beginning.

2. availability, as of a service or facility, whenever needed or desired.

   an executive's need for random access to legal experts.

random-access

²

[ran-duhm-ak-ses]

adjective

Computers.

1. direct-access.

random access

noun

1. another name for direct access

Word History and Origins

Origin of random access¹

First recorded in 1950–55