Meaning & Definition of word "Algorithm"

Algorithm

/ˈæl.ɡə.rɪ.ðəm/

noun:

  • 1. A step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem.
    • Example: The algorithm used for sorting the data was highly efficient.
  • 2. A set of rules or calculations to be followed in problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
    • Example: The search algorithm improved the accuracy of the results retrieved from the database.
  • 3. A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.
    • Example: Machine learning algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to find patterns.
  • 4. A procedure for resolving a specific problem, often used in computing or mathematics.
    • Example: The encryption algorithm secures sensitive information by transforming it into an unreadable format.

Etymology

From Arabic 'al-Khwarizmi', the name of a Persian mathematician.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sorting algorithm:

A method used to arrange data in a specified order.

search algorithm:

A method for finding specific data within a larger dataset.

greedy algorithm:

An algorithm that makes the locally optimal choice at each stage.

Related Words

computational complexity:

The study of the resources required for the execution of algorithms.

data structure:

A way of organizing and storing data to enable efficient access and modification.

machine learning:

A branch of artificial intelligence that uses algorithms to learn from and make predictions based on data.

Slang Meanings of algorithm

Meaning: Algo

Example Sentence: Did you check the new algo for the app? It's faster!

Meaning: Black box algorithm

Example Sentence: The recommendations seem random because it's a black box algorithm.