Components of Other Income (Expense), Net (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Other Income Net [Line Items]
Interest income	$ 1,567	$ 2,117	$ 5,396
Interest expense	(1,991)	(101)	(251)
Gain (loss) on assets related to deferred compensation plan	7,498	2,426	8,810
Foreign currency exchange gain (loss)	1,676	1,655	(1,514)
Other, net	2,361	173	2,107
Total	$ 11,111	$ 6,270	$ 14,548