piecewise

[ pees-wahyz ]

adverb

, Mathematics.

1. denoting that a function has a specified property, as smoothness or continuity, on each of a finite number of pieces into which its domain is divided:

   a piecewise continuous function; a piecewise differentiable curve.

Word History and Origins

Origin of piecewise¹

First recorded in 1665–75; piece + -wise