algorithm

[ al-guh-rith-uhm ]

noun

1. Mathematics. a set of rules for solving a problem in a finite number of steps, such as the Euclidean algorithm for finding the greatest common divisor.
2. Computers. an ordered set of instructions recursively applied to transform data input into processed data output, such as a mathematical solution, search engine result, descriptive statistics, or predictive text suggestions.

algorithm

/ ˈælɡəˌrɪðəm /

noun

1. a logical arithmetical or computational procedure that if correctly applied ensures the solution of a problem Compare heuristic
2. logic maths a recursive procedure whereby an infinite sequence of terms can be generated

algorithm

/ ăl′gə-rĭth′əm /

1. A finite set of unambiguous instructions performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a goal, especially a mathematical rule or procedure used to compute a desired result. Algorithms are the basis for most computer programming.

algorithm

1. A set of instructions for solving a problem, especially on a computer. An algorithm for finding your total grocery bill, for example, would direct you to add up the costs of individual items to find the total.

Derived Forms

• ˌalgoˈrithmically, adverb
• ˌalgoˈrithmic, adjective

Other Words From

• al·go·rith·mic [al-g, uh, -, rith, -mik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of algorithm¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; variant of algorism ( def ), by association with Greek arithmós “number”; arithmetic ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of algorithm¹

C17: changed from algorism , through influence of Greek arithmos number

Example Sentences

To boost the reliability of reinforcement learning models for complex tasks with variability, MIT researchers have introduced a more efficient algorithm for training them.

From Science Daily

The algorithm strategically selects the best tasks for training an AI agent so it can effectively perform all tasks in a collection of related tasks.

From Science Daily

By focusing on a smaller number of intersections that contribute the most to the algorithm's overall effectiveness, this method maximizes performance while keeping the training cost low.

From Science Daily

This gain in efficiency helps the algorithm learn a better solution in a faster manner, ultimately improving the performance of the AI agent.

From Science Daily

To train an algorithm to control traffic lights at many intersections in a city, an engineer would typically choose between two main approaches.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• action
• agenda
• conduct
• form
• measure
• method
• move
• operation
• plan
• policy
• practice
• proceeding
• program
• scheme
• step
• strategy
• transaction