What does the word "datum" most closely mean?

The term "datum" is derived from Latin, meaning "given" or "something given." In a contemporary context, it refers to a singular piece of information, fact, or data point that can be used for analysis. The essence of a datum is that it is an objective, verifiable piece of information used to support conclusions or decisions.

In the context of the choices provided, "fact" aligns best with the meaning of "datum" because it represents a statement that can be proven true or false based on evidence. All other terms, such as "estimate," "assumption," and "conclusion," involve a level of interpretation or inference that goes beyond the objective nature of a data point. In contrast, a fact is a foundational element in data analysis, reinforcing the correctness of choosing "fact" as the closest meaning for "datum."