algorithm
[ al-guh-rith-uh m ]
/ ˈæl gəˌrɪð əm /
noun
a set of rules for solving a problem in a finite number of steps, as for finding the greatest common divisor.
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RELATED WORDS
breakthrough, design, result, innovation, finding, data, method, conclusion, coup, godsend, process, luck, machine, secret, bonanza, principle, way, theorem, device, formula
Nearby words
- algophilia,
- algophobia,
- algor,
- algor mortis,
- algorism,
- algorithmic,
- algorithmic language,
- algovascular,
- algraphic,
- algraphy
Origin of algorithm
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for algorithm
algorithm
/ (ˈælɡəˌrɪðəm) /
noun
a logical arithmetical or computational procedure that if correctly applied ensures the solution of a problemCompare heuristic
logic maths a recursive procedure whereby an infinite sequence of terms can be generated
French name: algorism
Word Origin for algorithm
C17: changed from algorism, through influence of Greek arithmos number
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
algorithm
1690s, from French algorithme, refashioned (under mistaken connection with Greek arithmos "number") from Old French algorisme "the Arabic numeral system" (13c.), from Medieval Latin algorismus, a mangled transliteration of Arabic al-Khwarizmi "native of Khwarazm," surname of the mathematician whose works introduced sophisticated mathematics to the West (see algebra). The earlier form in Middle English was algorism (early 13c.), from Old French.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
algorithm
[ ăl′gə-rĭð′əm ]
n.
A step-by-step protocol, as for management of health care problems.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
algorithm
[ ăl′gə-rĭð′əm ]
A finite set of unambiguous instructions performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a goal, especially a mathematical rule or procedure used to compute a desired result. Algorithms are the basis for most computer programming.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
algorithm
[ (al-guh-rith-uhm) ]
A set of instructions for solving a problem, especially on a computer. An algorithm for finding your total grocery bill, for example, would direct you to add up the costs of individual items to find the total.
The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition
Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.