Data
WordNet
noun
(1) A collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn
"Statistical data"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From data, plural of datum (‘that is given’), neuter past participle of dare (‘to give’).
Noun
data
- : pieces of information.
- information.
- A collection of object-units that are distinct from one another.
Usage notes
- Colloquially, this word is often used as an uncountable noun with a singular verb.
- In formal or scientific writing, this word is usually a plural noun, with singular datum.
- When considered a plural noun, proper grammar dictates the use of a countable determiner; "How many data were collected?"
- When considered an uncountable or mass noun, an uncountable determiner is used; "How much data was collected?"