iterative

adjective

it·​er·​a·​tive ˈi-tə-ˌrā-tiv  -rə- 

: involving repetition: such as

a

: expressing repetition of a verbal action

b

: utilizing the repetition of a sequence of operations or procedures

iterative programming methods

iteratively adverb

Examples of iterative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While Washington and Silicon Valley have become entranced by the idea of superintelligent AI, or artificial general intelligence, China has focused on steady, iterative progress and widespread adoption, especially in robotics. —semafor.com, 29 Sep. 2025

For now, and possibly forever, advances in AI are more likely to be iterative, like other general-purpose technologies. —Michael C. Horowitz, Foreign Affairs, 26 Sep. 2025

Both learned entrepreneurship the hard way, through real-world trials, financial pressures, and iterative hiring. —Jon Stojan, USA Today, 25 Sep. 2025

Focusing on user experience, getting iterative feedback and improving are the most critical strategies in all digital transformation successes. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for iterative

• allocative
• appellative
• commutative
• connotative
• copulative
• degradative
• dissipative
• educative
• exudative
• facultative
• imitative
• infiltrative