sampling

American  

[sam-pling, sahm-] / ˈsæm plɪŋ, ˈsɑm- /

noun

1. the act or process of selecting a sample for testing, analyzing, etc.

2. the sample so selected.

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sampling British  

/ ˈsɑːmplɪŋ /

noun

1. the process of selecting a random sample

2. a variant of sample

3. the process of taking a short extract from (a record) and mixing it into a different backing track

4. a process in which a continuous electrical signal is approximately represented by a series of discrete values, usually regularly spaced

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Etymology

Origin of sampling

First recorded in 1630–40; sample + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

"We loved going to the theme park in Denmark, but we equally loved sampling all the food in Italy," she said.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

The inspector general’s office based its findings on a review of a selective or “purposive” sampling of 40 nursing-home inspections and admits the findings can’t easily be extrapolated to all facilities.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Officials said exposure to lead in the nuggets was found during a routine surveillance sampling conducted by a state partner.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

While preparing the sampling surfaces, Clough followed standard practice and wore nitrile gloves.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

She had added the one-meter bits to her equipment that morning, anticipating geological sampling later in the day.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

Related Words

• detail
• example
• item
• occasion
• occurrence
• particular
• precedent
• proof
• reason