definitions

initialize

[ ih-nish-uh-lahyz ]
/ ɪˈnɪʃ əˌlaɪz /
|
SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR initialize ON THESAURUS.COM

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.

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RELATED WORDS

load, compute, program, run, digitize, computerize, input, boot, keyboard

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 initialize

  • If voters want to change their selections before they send in their ballot, they must initialize the change.

    Hurt Locker Blows Up|Nicole LaPorte|March 1, 2010|DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for initialize

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 initialize

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