Informally, an algorithm is any well-defined computational procedure that takes some value, or set of values, as input and produces some value, or set of values, as output. An algorithm is thus a sequence of computational steps that transform the input into the output.
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algorithm — UK US /ˈælgərɪðəm/ noun [C] IT ► a set of mathematical instructions that must be followed in a fixed order, and that, especially if given to a computer, will help to calculate an answer to a mathematical problem: a computer/mathematical/search… … Financial and business terms
algorithm — n. a precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem; a set of procedures guaranteed to find the solution to a problem. Syn: algorithmic rule, algorithmic program [WordNet 1.5 +PJC] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
algorithm — [al′gə rith΄əm] n. [altered (after ARITHMETIC) < ALGORISM] 1. Math. a) any systematic method of solving a certain kind of problem b) the repetitive calculations used in finding the greatest common divisor of two numbers: called in full… … English World dictionary
Algorithm — [engl.], Algorithmus. … Universal-Lexikon
algorithm — (n.) 1690s, from Fr. algorithme, refashioned (under mistaken connection with Gk. arithmos number ) from O.Fr. algorisme the Arabic numeral system (13c.), from M.L. algorismus, a mangled transliteration of Arabic al Khwarizmi native of Khwarazm,… … Etymology dictionary
algorithm — ► NOUN ▪ a process or set of rules used in calculations or other problem solving operations. DERIVATIVES algorithmic adjective. ORIGIN Latin algorismus, from an Arabic word meaning the man of Kw rizm , referring to a 9th century mathematician … English terms dictionary
Algorithm — Flow chart of an algorithm (Euclid s algorithm) for calculating the greatest common divisor (g.c.d.) of two numbers a and b in locations named A and B. The algorithm proceeds by successive subtractions in two loops: IF the test B ≤ A yields yes… … Wikipedia
algorithm — algorithmic, adj. /al geuh ridh euhm/, n. a set of rules for solving a problem in a finite number of steps, as for finding the greatest common divisor. [1890 95; var. of ALGORISM, by assoc. with Gk arithmós number. See ARITHMETIC] * * * Procedure … Universalium
algorithm — A systematic process consisting of an ordered sequence of steps, each step depending on the outcome of the previous one. In clinical medicine, a step by step protocol for management of a health care problem … Medical dictionary
algorithm — n. a sequential set of instructions used in calculations or problem solving. A reconstruction algorithm is a complex mathematical formula used by a computer to construct images from the data acquired by CT, MRI, or other scanners. A diagnostic… … The new mediacal dictionary
