Definition

A measure of how a signal or data set correlates with itself over time, showing how values at one time relate to values at another time.

Example

The autocorrelation of the time series data revealed a repeating pattern.

Conversation

I was reading about autocorrelation in my statistics class yesterday.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It's basically how a signal correlates with itself over time.

That sounds interesting! I guess it can help in analyzing data patterns.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autocorrelation is formed from "auto-" (meaning self) and "correlatio" (from Latin, meaning relation or connection). The term describes the correlation of a signal with a delayed copy of itself, indicating how a variable relates to itself over time.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') relating to 'relation' ('correlatio') — that's why autocorrelation means a self-relation over time.

Visually Confused Words