algorithm

algorithm (ˈælɡəˌrɪðəm)
—n
1.	Compare heuristic a logical arithmetical or computational procedure that if correctly applied ensures the solution of a problem
2.	logic, maths a recursive procedure whereby an infinite sequence of terms can be generated
[C17: changed from algorism, through influence of Greek arithmos number]
algo'rithmic
—adj
algo'rithmically
—adv

algorithm

mathematics to the West (see algebra). The earlier form in M.E. was algorism (early 13c.), from O.Fr. Modern use of algorithmic to describe symbolic rules or language is from 1881.

algorithm al·go·rithm (āl'gə-rĭ&phonth;'əm)
n.
A step-by-step protocol, as for management of health care problems.

algorithm   (āl'gə-rĭ'əm)  Pronunciation Key  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 [(al-guh-rith-uhm)]

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.

algorithm definition

algorithm, programming
A detailed sequence of actions to perform to accomplish some task. Named after the Iranian, Islamic mathematician, astronomer, astrologer and geographer, Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi.
Technically, an algorithm must reach a result after a finite number of steps, thus ruling out brute force search methods for certain problems, though some might claim that brute force search was also a valid (generic) algorithm. The term is also used loosely for any sequence of actions (which may or may not terminate).
Paul E. Black's Dictionary of Algorithms, Data Structures, and Problems (http://nist.gov/dads/).
(2002-02-05)