Algorithm Definition
ălgə-rĭthəm
algorithms
noun
algorithms
A finite set of unambiguous instructions that, given some set of initial conditions, can be performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a certain goal and that has a recognizable set of end conditions.
American Heritage
Any systematic method of solving a certain kind of problem.
Webster's New World
The repetitive calculations used in finding the greatest common divisor of two numbers.
Webster's New World
A predetermined set of instructions for solving a specific problem in a limited number of steps.
Webster's New World
A precise step-by-step plan for a computational procedure that possibly begins with an input value and yields an output value in a finite number of steps.
Wiktionary
Synonyms:
- algorithmic program
- algorithmic rule
Other Word Forms of Algorithm
Noun
Singular:
algorithmPlural:
algorithmsOrigin of Algorithm
-
From French algorithme; from the Old French algorisme (“the Arabic numeral system”), a modification likely due to a mistaken connection with Ancient Greek ἀριθμός (arithmos); from Medieval Latin algorismus, a transliteration of Arabicized form of the name of the Persian mathematician al-Khwārizmī (الخوارزمي (“native of Khwarezm”)).
From Wiktionary
Variant (probably influenced by arithmetic) of algorism
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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