Iterative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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iterative
[ˈɪt(ə)rətɪv ]
Definition
programming
Repeating a process or task multiple times in a systematic manner, often using loops or iterations.
Synonyms
cyclical, recurring, repetitive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| iterative |
This is used in the context of processes, especially in mathematics, computer science, and engineering, where repetition of procedures or steps is essential until a specific condition is met.
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| repetitive |
Mostly used in a negative sense to describe tasks, actions, or patterns that are monotonous and involve repeated doing of the same thing.
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| recurring |
Used when referring to something that happens repeatedly over time but not necessarily in a predictable pattern.
|
| cyclical |
Appropriate when describing things that happen in cycles, often related to natural or economic phenomena with predictable patterns.
|
Examples of usage
- His iterative approach to problem-solving allowed him to quickly identify and fix bugs in the code.
- The iterative nature of the software development cycle ensures that each stage is thoroughly tested and refined.
- She preferred an iterative design process, making small changes and improvements incrementally.
- By taking an iterative approach, the team was able to gradually enhance the user experience of the application.
- In an iterative manner, the program iterated through each element of the array to find the maximum value.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In scientific research, iterative processes help refine experiments and theories based on previous results.
- The scientific method itself incorporates iteration; hypotheses are tested, and results are revisited for further analysis.
- Iterative methods are often used in numerical analysis to provide progressively better approximations.
Technology
- In software development, 'iterative' refers to creating prototypes, testing them, and improving them until the final product is achieved.
- Agile development is an example of an iterative approach, where projects are broken into smaller pieces for regular updates and feedback.
- The iterative design process allows designers to adjust products based on user feedback efficiently.
Psychology
- The iterative approach is used in cognitive behavioral therapy, where clients build on their progress with each session.
- This method can help improve problem-solving skills by encouraging individuals to learn from past mistakes.
- Iteration in personal development suggests that repeated practice leads to mastery and greater confidence.
Art
- Artists often use an iterative process to refine their works, with each iteration revealing new insights or corrections.
- In film and animation, storyboards are refined through iterative feedback to enhance storytelling.
- Musicians might take an iterative approach when composing, repeating and modifying melodies to find the perfect fit.
Origin of 'iterative'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'iterare', which means 'to repeat'.
- It has evolved to describe processes in various fields, emphasizing improvement through repetition.
- First recorded use in English was in the late 19th century, commonly applied in mathematics and programming.
The word 'iterative' comes from the Latin word 'iterativus', which is derived from the verb 'iterare' meaning 'to repeat'. The concept of iteration has been fundamental in various fields such as mathematics, computer science, and problem-solving. The iterative process allows for incremental improvements, refinement, and optimization of tasks or projects over multiple cycles.
See also: iterate, iteration, iteratively, reiterate, reiteration, reiterative.