Definition of sample
(Entry 1 of 3)
1
: a representative part or a single item from a larger whole or group especially when presented for inspection or shown as evidence of quality : specimen
2
: a finite part of a statistical population whose properties are studied to gain information about the whole
3
: an excerpt from a recording (such as a popular song by another performer) that is used in a musical composition, recording, or performance
… had to substantially rewrite "Sometimes I Miss You … " when he was denied permission to use a Michael Jackson sample …— Jon Young
sample
verbDefinition of sample (Entry 2 of 3)
1
: to take a sample of or from
especially
: to judge the quality of by a sample : test
sampled his output for defects sample a wine
2
: to use a segment of (recorded music, sounds, or dialogue from another source) as part of one's own musical composition or recording
A Josh Wink record takes a series of sampled noises, then twists and warps them through a barrage of sound processors …— Frank Broughton
: to use a sample (see sample entry 1 sense 3) from (another recording or performer)
… claims Carey sampled his hit "I Want to Thank You" on her 1992 song "Make It Happen."— Jancee Dunn
sample
adjectiveDefinition of sample (Entry 3 of 3)
: serving as an illustration or example
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for sample
The first known use of sample was in the 15th century
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