definitions
  • synonyms

initialize

[ ih-nish-uh-lahyz ]
/ ɪˈnɪʃ əˌlaɪz /
|

verb (used with object), in·i·tial·ized, in·i·tial·iz·ing. Computers.

to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram.
to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use.

Nearby words

initial, initial code, initial rhyme, initial teaching alphabet, initialism, initialize, initially, initiate, initiating agent, initiation, initiation factor
Also especially British, in·i·tial·ise.

Origin of initialize

First recorded in 1955–60; initial + -ize
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for initialise

  • Our fancy supplies us, and there not being many, we will just initialise them all, and let he whom the cap fits put it on.

    Jorrocks' Jaunts and Jollities|Robert Smith Surtees

British Dictionary definitions for initialise

initialize

initialise

/ (ɪˈnɪʃəˌlaɪz) /

verb

(tr) to assign an initial value to (a variable or storage location) in a computer program
Derived Formsinitialization or 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

Word Origin and History for initialise

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