bootstrap
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1boot·strap

noun \ˈbüt-ˌstrap\

Definition of BOOTSTRAP

1
: a looped strap sewed at the side or the rear top of a boot to help in pulling it on
2
plural : unaided efforts —often used in the phrase by one's own bootstraps

First Known Use of BOOTSTRAP

1875

2bootstrap

adjective

Definition of BOOTSTRAP

1
: designed to function independently of outside direction : capable of using one internal function or process to control another <a bootstrap operation to load a computer>
2
: carried out with minimum resources or advantages <bootstrap efforts>

First Known Use of BOOTSTRAP

1926

3bootstrap

transitive verb

Definition of BOOTSTRAP

: to promote or develop by initiative and effort with little or no assistance <bootstrapped herself to the top>
boot·strap·per noun

First Known Use of BOOTSTRAP

1951

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