information theory

noun

: a theory that deals statistically with information, with the measurement of its content in terms of its distinguishing essential characteristics or by the number of alternatives from which it makes a choice possible, and with the efficiency of processes of communication between humans and machines

Examples of information theory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Introduction Contributing Writer December 13, 2024 fundamental physics history of science information theory physics statistical physics thermodynamics All topics (opens a new tab) ife is an anthology of destruction. —

Zack Savitsky, Quanta Magazine, 13 Dec. 2024 His work lies at the interface of math, statistics, information theory, signal processing and scientific computing. —

Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024 Jane Gould is a transportation planner from Northern California with a background in information theory. —

Sue Saunders, The Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2024 In the nineteen-forties and fifties, the two strands of research came together in the work of Claude Shannon, a founder of information theory. —

Jill Lepore, The New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for information theory

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of information theory was in 1945

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Information theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/information%20theory. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.

Copy Citation