<algorithm, programming> A detailed sequence of actions to
perform to accomplish some task. Named after an Iranian
mathematician, Al-Khawarizmi.
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.
(2002-02-05)
Nearby terms:
ALGOL X « ALGOL Y « algorithim « algorithm » ALgorithm DEScription » ALgorIthmic ASsembly language » Algorithmic Language
