initialize

verb ini·tial·ize \ i-ˈni-shə-ˌlīz \

Updated on: 16 Apr 2018

Definition of initialize

initialized; initializing

transitive verb

: to set (something, such as a computer program counter) to a starting position, value, or configuration

—

initialization

play \i-ˌni-sh(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən\ noun

Recent Examples of initialize from the Web

Each time a train finishes a run, the new system will have to be initialized before the train can turn around and start a new run in the other direction.

— kimberly fornek, chicagotribune.com, "Metra safety plan proposes fewer morning BNSF express trains from Hinsdale to Chicago," 6 Apr. 2018
The Riverside district said handwritten notes initialized by the district's transportation supervisor indicate the fixes were made the same day as the inspection.

— jason clayworth, USA TODAY, "Inspection records altered a week after Iowa school bus caught fire, killing 2," 8 Feb. 2018
Former San Francisco supervisor and state Sen. Mark Leno initializes his intent to run for mayor at the department of elections on Thursday, May 4, 2017, in city hall in San Francisco, Calif.

— matier & ross, San Francisco Chronicle, "Leno, Breed top the field in first poll of SF mayoral election," 3 Jan. 2018
Each 2-Kbyte sector contains a key to initialize the LFSRs.

— victor c. clarke, WIRED, "DVD Hacking for Dummies," 1 June 2001

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'initialize.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of initialize

1957

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initialize

Definition of initialize

initialization

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First Known Use of initialize

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initialize

Definition of initialize

initialization

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First Known Use of initialize

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