Hash table

In computer science, a hash table is a data structure that implements an associative array, also called a dictionary or simply map; an associative array is an abstract data type that maps keys to values. A hash table uses a hash function to compute an index, also called a hash code, into an array of buckets or slots, from which the desired value can be found. During lookup, the key is hashed and the resulting hash indicates where the corresponding value is stored.

A map implemented by a hash table is called a hash map.

Back to Data Structures →

Source: Wikipedia · Image: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

ALGOHAY

Algorithms, demystified — data-structure guides, complexity tools, and interview prep for developers.

Get new guides by emailOccasional emails. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

InformationAbout Contact Privacy Policy Terms of Service Disclaimer Affiliate Disclosure Cookie Policy

Every algorithm, image, fact, and figure in the museum is drawn from Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, used under public-domain and Creative Commons licenses. No content is AI-generated.