factorization

1 of 2

noun

fac·​tor·​i·​za·​tion ˌfak-tə-rə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce factorization (audio)
: the operation of resolving a quantity into factors
also : a product obtained by factorization
factorize transitive verb

factorize

2 of 2

transitive verb

fac·​tor·​ize ˈfaktəˌrīz How to pronounce factorize (audio)
-ed/-ing/-s

Examples of factorization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
Quantum computers can dismantle classical encryption by efficiently solving integer factorization and discrete logarithms; the mathematical foundations of RSA and ECC protocols that secure virtually every financial transaction, supply chain system and customer database today. Connie McIntosh, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2026 The new research shows that an algorithm using quantum Fourier transforms can perform this factorization efficiently. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2025 Less obvious is what also has been demonstrated—that quantum computers can offer dramatic gains in solving some kinds of non–quantum mechanical problems, such as factorization. Charina Chou, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 In 1994, the mathematician Peter Shor discovered a way for quantum computers to efficiently reverse the trapdoor functions that underlie most current public key cryptography systems, including prime factorization. John Pavlus, WIRED, 15 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for factorization

Word History

Etymology

Noun

factorize (from factor entry 1 + -ize) + -ation

First Known Use

Noun

1886, in the meaning defined above

Transitive Verb

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of factorization was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Factorization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/factorization. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

factorization

noun
fac·​tor·​i·​za·​tion ˌfak-tə-rə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce factorization (audio)
: the act or process or an instance or result of factoring
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