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Initialized: meaning, definitions and examples

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initialized

 

[ ˈɪnɪʃəlaɪzd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

computer programming

To initialize is to set a variable to a defined value when it is created. This process is essential in programming as it prepares the variable for use in computations or to store data. Initialization ensures that variables have a known state before operations are performed on them, preventing potential errors due to uninitialized data. This concept applies to various programming languages and is fundamental in the development of software applications.

Synonyms

establish, prepare, set-up

Examples of usage

  • The variable must be initialized before it can be used.
  • In this code snippet, we initialize an array with default values.
  • Make sure to initialize your configuration settings.

Translations

Translations of the word "initialized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inicializado

🇮🇳 प्रारंभिक

🇩🇪 initialisiert

🇮🇩 diinisialisasi

🇺🇦 ініціалізований

🇵🇱 zainicjowany

🇯🇵 初期化された

🇫🇷 initialisé

🇪🇸 inicializado

🇹🇷 başlatılmış

🇰🇷 초기화된

🇸🇦 مبدئي

🇨🇿 inicializovaný

🇸🇰 inicializovaný

🇨🇳 初始化

🇸🇮 inicializiran

🇮🇸 upphafið

🇰🇿 бастапқы

🇬🇪 საწყისი

🇦🇿 başlanğıc

🇲🇽 inicializado

Word origin

The term 'initialize' is derived from the root 'initial', which traces back to the Latin word 'initialis', meaning 'pertaining to a beginning'. The concept of initialization emerged with the development of computer programming in the mid-20th century, particularly as programming languages evolved. It was essential for programmers to have a clear method of setting variables to a specific starting point to avoid unpredictable behavior in software. Over time, the use of 'initialize' became standardized across various programming languages, symbolizing the vital importance of preparing data structures before use. The advent of object-oriented programming and advanced data structures further emphasized the need for proper initialization techniques. Today, 'initialize' is often encountered in programming tutorials, documentation, and coding environments, highlighting its crucial role in software development.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,932, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.