initialize
Americanverb (used with object)
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to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram.
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to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use.
verb
Other Word Forms
- initialization noun
Etymology
Origin of initialize
Vocabulary lists containing initialize
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The pangrams from yesterday’s Spelling Bee were initialize and tantalize.
From New York Times • Sep. 30, 2022
Do not initialize your NAS, as this will erase your data.
From The Verge • Feb. 22, 2022
Researchers think they can sidestep that problem if they can initialize all the qubits in their computer in particular “magic states” that, more or less, do half the work of the problematic gates.
From Science Magazine • Jul. 9, 2020
The navigation system seemed to take forever to initialize when I started the vehicle.
From Forbes • Nov. 19, 2012
You can use the arrow keys to select the menu items to initialize or to mount disk partitions if you have any more partitions to set up.
From Debian GNU/Linux : Guide to Installation and Usage by Goerzen, John
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
