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initialize

 - 2 dictionary results

in⋅i⋅tial⋅ize

  [i-nish-uh-lahyz]
Use initialize in a Sentence
–verb (used with object), -ized, -iz⋅ing. Computers.
1. to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram.
2. to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use.
Also, especially British, in⋅i⋅tial⋅ise.

Origin:
1955–60; initial + -ize
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To initialize
in·i·tial·ize   (ĭ-nĭsh'ə-līz')   
tr.v.   in·i·tial·ized, in·i·tial·iz·ing, in·i·tial·iz·es Computer Science

  1. To set (a starting value of a variable).

  2. To prepare (a computer or a printer) for use; boot.

  3. To format (a storage medium, such as a disk).

in·i'tial·i·za'tion (-shə-lĭ-zā'shən) n., in·i'tial·iz'er n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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