iteration

[it-uh-rey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of repeating; a repetition.

2. Mathematics.

   1. Also called successive approximation. a problem-solving or computational method in which a succession of approximations, each building on the one preceding, is used to achieve a desired degree of accuracy.

   2. an instance of the use of this method.

3. Digital Technology.

   1. a repetition of a statement or statements in a computer program.

   2. a different version of an existing data set, software program, hardware device, etc..

      A new iteration of the data will be released next month.

4. a different form or version of something.

   He designed the previous iteration of our logo.

5. a development strategy that involves a cyclical process of refining or tweaking the latest version of a product, process, or idea to make a subsequent version.

   Our startup is relying on rapid iteration in the next software development cycle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of iteration¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English from Latin iterātiōn-, stem of iterātiō; iterate, -ion