step function

noun

, Mathematics.

1. a function that is constant on each of a finite set of subintervals of its domain, the union of the subintervals being the domain.

step function

noun

1. an electrical waveform that rises or falls instantly from one level to another

Word History and Origins

Origin of step function¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

That’s autonomy and that’s the key step function value.

From The Verge

“There’s been steady improvement over time, but it’s clear there would not be binary step function where one day we don’t have AVs and the next they’re everywhere.”

From The Verge

Third-generation Ryzen mobile is a step function.

From The Verge

“It’s usually a slow progression going from hyper-growth to just growth. In this case it’s a step function down. That’s why you are seeing more of an over-reaction,” said Loup Ventures’ Gene Munster.

From The Guardian

“There is no doubt that 2016 marked a step function for many of the world’s coral reefs,” said Kim Cobb, a coral reef expert at Georgia Tech, who was not involved in the study.

From Washington Post