iteration

noun

it·​er·​a·​tion ˌi-tə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce iteration (audio)
1
: version, incarnation
the latest iteration of the operating system
2
: the action or a process of iterating or repeating: such as
a
: a procedure in which repetition of a sequence of operations yields results successively closer to a desired result
b
: the repetition of a sequence of computer instructions a specified number of times or until a condition is met compare recursion
3
: one execution of a sequence of operations or instructions in an iteration

Examples of iteration in a Sentence

your constant iteration of the same piddling complaints is wearing thin
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How large is the current Zapad exercise compared with the previous iteration in 2021? Nathan Hodge, CNN Money, 12 Sep. 2025 McLachlan flipped that script by launching Lilith, whose first iteration featured a rotating roster of incredible acts including Fiona Apple, The Cardigans, Tracy Chapman, Paula Cole, Sheryl Crow, Indigo Girls, Emmylou Harris, Jewel, Dido, Pat Benatar, Beth Orton and many more on three stages. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 12 Sep. 2025 Since then, plenty of other iterations of the restaurant have followed, including Che Fico Pizzeria. Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 12 Sep. 2025 This involved trialling multiple iterations of the technology through screenings and interviews with participants. Gus Alexiou, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for iteration

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of iteration was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Iteration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/iteration. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

iteration

noun
it·​er·​a·​tion ˌit-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce iteration (audio)
: repetition
especially : a computational process in which a series of operations is repeated a number of times

More from Merriam-Webster on iteration

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