Pronunciation

/ˈstæk/

Definitions

Noun

1. A pile or arrangement of objects, usually one above the other, often in a compact or orderly manner. Example: The books are neatly stacked on the shelf.
2. A set of layers or levels in a computer program or operating system, where each layer handles a specific task. Example: The application runs on multiple stacks for efficient resource management.
3. A collection of items waiting to be processed or dealt with. Example: The to-do list had a long stack of tasks to complete.

Verb

1. To place (objects) one on top of another in a pile. Example: She stacked the dishes in the dishwasher.
2. To build up or accumulate (items) in a series or sequence. Example: The team stacked up their points during the game.
3. In computing, to push data onto a stack or execute a function call. Example: The program stack was cleared after the function finished.

Preposition

Used to indicate position or arrangement in a vertical stack. Example: The cards were stacked in a specific order.

Phrases

• Stack up: To arrange things in a pile or sequence.
• Stack up against: To compare or contrast (one thing) with another.
• Stack the deck: To unfairly favor one side or manipulate a situation.
• Clear the stack: To finish all tasks or operations on a stack.

Example Sentences

• Noun: He arranged the logs in a neat stack by the fireplace.
• Verb: She stacked the plates high on the countertop before starting her shift.
• Preposition: The software developer examined the code to ensure there were no bugs in the stack.

Synonyms

• Pile
• Layer
• Heap
• Collection
• Stacking
• Build-up
• Queue (in some contexts)