/ əˈreɪ; NAmE / noun , verb
■ noun
1.
[ usually sing. ] a group or collection of things or people, often one that is large or impressive :
a vast array of bottles of different shapes and sizes
a dazzling array of talent
2.
( computing ) a way of organizing and storing related data in a computer memory
3.
( technical ) a set of numbers, signs or values arranged in rows and columns
■ verb [ vn ] [ usually passive ] ( formal )
1.
to arrange a group of things in a pleasing way or so that they are in order :
Jars of all shapes and sizes were arrayed on the shelves.
2.
to arrange soldiers in a position from which they are ready to attack
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English (in the senses preparedness and place in readiness ): from Old French arei (noun), areer (verb), based on Latin ad- towards + a Germanic base meaning prepare.