Lambda Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
λ
lambda
[ˈlæmbdə ]
Definition
mathematics, programming
In mathematics and computer science, 'lambda' often refers to an anonymous function or a function defined without a name. It is commonly used in functional programming to create small, throwaway functions. Lambda expressions are a way to define a function in a concise syntax, allowing the creation of functions on the fly, especially as arguments to high-order functions. The term derives from the notation introduced by Alonzo Church in the 1930s to formulate a formal system of logic and computation.
Synonyms
anonymous function, function literal, lambda expression.
Examples of usage
- The lambda function can be used to filter a list.
- In Python, you can create a simple transformation of data using a lambda expression.
- Lambda calculus is foundational for understanding functional programming.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Computer Science
- In programming, a lambda function is a small, anonymous function that can have multiple arguments but can only have one expression.
- Lambda expressions allow for a concise way to write functions in languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript.
- Lambda calculus is a formal system used in mathematical logic and computer science to represent computation through function abstraction and application.
Mathematics
- In mathematics, lambda is often used to denote eigenvalues in linear algebra, as well as in statistics to represent the wavelength of electromagnetic waves.
- It also appears in calculus, where it can represent a real number in a limit or lambda notation.
Cultural References
- Lambda is a symbol embraced by the LGBTQ+ community, representing diversity and pride.
- In 2016, the Lambda Literary Awards celebrated outstanding works in LGBTQ literature, honoring creativity and representation.
Pop Culture
- Lambda has found its way into popular culture, referenced in films and series such as 'The Matrix' where concepts of parallel realities and computational philosophy are explored.
- The character Lambda in various video games often embodies intelligence, strategy, or mastery of code and computation.
Origin of 'lambda'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'lambda' comes from the 11th letter of the Greek alphabet, Λ (capital) and λ (lowercase).
- In the early 20th century, the term began being used in the context of mathematics and computer science.
The term 'lambda' comes from the Greek letter λ (lambda), which was used by mathematician Alonzo Church in his formulation of lambda calculus in the 1930s. This notation allowed the representation of functions as first-class citizens and set the foundation for functional programming paradigms. Lambda calculus was instrumental in the development of programming languages that incorporate functional programming concepts. Over time, the term 'lambda' has been adopted in various programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and Lisp to denote anonymous functions, highlighting a shift in the way developers approach function definitions and their scopes. Today, lambda functions are widely used in modern programming due to their simplicity and flexibility.