length-variable coding
nounUK /lɛŋθ ˈvɛəriəbl ˈkəʊdɪŋ/
US /lɛŋθ ˈvɛriəbl ˈkoʊdɪŋ/
A way of writing computer code where the pieces can be different sizes.
The app uses length-variable coding so short messages stay short and long ones can grow.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A data storage method where each item takes up only as much space as it needs.
Length-variable coding saved space because small numbers used fewer bits.
3. A technique in signal processing where codes have different lengths depending on how often they appear.
The radio system relies on length-variable coding to send common signals quickly.
4. A programming approach where records or fields can change size at runtime.
With length-variable coding, the database field grows as the user types more text.