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Algorithm

AL-guh-rith-um /ˈælɡərɪðəm/

nounB2GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formaltechnical

A set of rules or instructions followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.

Algorithms are the step-by-step recipes that computers follow to achieve a task. In AI, they are often complex mathematical procedures that enable learning, pattern recognition, or decision-making.

The story behind the word. This word has a fascinating journey! It comes from the name of the 9th-century Persian mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi, whose Latinized name was `Algorismi`. His influential treatise on Hindu-Arabic numerals introduced the decimal system to the Western world, and his systematic methods for calculation became known as `algorism`, which later evolved into `algorithm` to describe any step-by-step problem-solving procedure.

Word relationships

procedure: A general term for a sequence of actions, less specific to computation.
formula: Often refers to a mathematical expression, while an algorithm is a sequence of steps.

Word family

algorithmic (adjective): Relating to or involving algorithms.
algorithmically (adverb): In an algorithmic manner.

Collocations

complex algorithm
sorting algorithm
develop an algorithm
Algorithm design

Example sentences

"Google's search engine uses a complex Algorithm to rank web pages based on relevance and authority." Explaining how search engines work.
"The encryption Algorithm ensures that sensitive data remains secure during transmission." Discussing data security.

Memory hook

Imagine 'Al Gore' (the former Vice President) solving a 'rhythm' puzzle step-by-step. 'Al-go-rhythm'. Al-Khwarizmi's Steps

When not to use

Do not use 'algorithm' as a catch-all term for any computer program or system. It specifically refers to the logical sequence of steps, not the entire software package.

Fun facts

Al-Khwarizmi's work also gave us the word 'algebra' (from his book title 'Al-Jabr').
The concept of an algorithm is ancient, but its formalization for computing is relatively modern.