Recursive: meaning, definitions and examples

In computer science and mathematics, when a function or a process calls itself.

• The recursive function calculates the factorial of the number.
• He solved the problem using a recursive algorithm.

When something happens repeatedly, often in a way that lacks variety and can become boring or monotonous, sometimes with negative connotations.

• The job involved repetitive tasks that quickly became tedious.
• Listening to the same song on repeat can be quite repetitive.

When a process or activity is repeated, often to refine and improve, common in engineering, development, or problem-solving.

• Software development often involves iterative testing and debugging.
• She followed an iterative approach to improve the design.

For processes or events that repeat in a cycle, often used in economics or nature.

• The business cycle is a cyclical pattern of economic growth and contraction.
• The seasons follow a cyclical pattern.

Appropriate in a technical or mathematical context, especially in computer science and mathematics, when referring to functions or processes that call themselves as part of their execution. It can also denote a process that repeats itself in a self-similar way.

• The binary search algorithm is a classic example of a recursive algorithm.
• Recursive functions can be tricky to debug.

Used in a broader, often philosophical, context to describe something that refers to itself, either explicitly or implicitly. This term is popular in literature, art, and philosophy to describe works or concepts that contain elements of self-reference.

• The novel's self-referential nature adds a unique layer of depth to the narrative.
• His humor is often self-referential, poking fun at his own experiences.