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initialize

[ih-nish-uh-lahyz] /ɪˈnɪʃ əˌlaɪz/
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verb (used with object), initialized, initializing. Computers.
1.
to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram.
2.
to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use.
Also, especially British, initialise.
Origin of initialize
1955-1960
First recorded in 1955-60; initial + -ize
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2017.
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British Dictionary definitions for initialize

initialize

/ɪˈnɪʃəˌlaɪz/
verb
1.
(transitive) to assign an initial value to (a variable or storage location) in a computer program
Derived Forms
initialization, initialisation, noun
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word Origin and History for initialize
v.

1833, "to designate by initials," from initial + -ize. Meaning "to make ready for operation" is from 1957. Related: Initialized; initializing.

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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