AI Glossary
Encoder
What is Encoder?
The part of a neural network architecture that converts raw input (text, image, audio) into a dense numerical representation — a vector — that captures semantic meaning. Encoders are used in retrieval systems, semantic search, and classification tasks. The encoder in a transformer processes input bidirectionally, unlike a decoder.
Example in practice
An HR platform using AI to match candidates to job descriptions would use an encoder to convert both candidate profiles and job descriptions into vectors — then compare them for semantic similarity.
Learn more
See Encoder applied in a professional context through this free course.
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