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• direct-access
  direct-access

  adjective

  pertaining to the ability to obtain data from, or place data in, external storage without the need to sequentially scan other data contained there.
• direct access
  direct access

  noun

  a method of reading data from a computer file without reading through the file from the beginning as on a disk or drum Compare sequential access

direct-access

American  

[dih-rekt-ak-ses, -ak-, dahy-] / dɪˈrɛktˈæk sɛs, -ˌæk-, daɪ- /

adjective

Computers.

1. pertaining to the ability to obtain data from, or place data in, external storage without the need to sequentially scan other data contained there.

2. pertaining to the method of organization and access used for a data structure in which records are located by their keys, without reference to other records that may have been previously accessed.

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direct access British  

noun

1. Also called: random access.  a method of reading data from a computer file without reading through the file from the beginning as on a disk or drum Compare sequential access

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Example Sentences

Since I lack direct access to the president’s munificence, my shoes came instead from a men’s clothing store near where I live in Boston.

From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026

"If you... have direct access to them, it will be much easier," the 30-year-old drone specialist told AFP.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

Right now, 988 offers callers direct access to counselors with specialized training in supporting veterans, another population with higher suicide rates than the national average.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Located on a 5-acre lot on the edge of the lake, the dwelling is known as Crystal Pointe and offers direct access to the water via a unique hillside track that operates two funicular trams.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 2, 2026

One of the few with direct access to the subtrans system.

From "The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin)" by James Dashner