recursion

noun

re·​cur·​sion ri-ˈkər-zhən 

1

: return sense 1

2

: the determination of a succession of elements (such as numbers or functions) by operation on one or more preceding elements according to a rule or formula involving a finite number of steps

3

: a computer programming technique involving the use of a procedure, subroutine, function, or algorithm that calls itself one or more times until a specified condition is met at which time the rest of each repetition is processed from the last one called to the first compare iteration

Examples of recursion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Lee’s lines have the intimacy and metaphysical heft of prayer; their elegant recursions and repetitions call to mind the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026

Despite its endless appetite for novelty, New York City really is a creature of recursion. — Kat Chen, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Sep. 2026

They are based on a linear equation and the principle of recursion. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 25 Aug. 2026

The target of the recursion is intended to improve the AI that is undertaking the building task at hand. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 7 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Late Latin recursiōn-, recursiō "return," from Latin recurrere "to run back, return" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at recur

Note: The form -curs- for expected *-co(r)st- follows the past participle and verbal noun cursus; seen note at course entry 1.

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for recursion

• aspersion
• aversion
• conversion
• dispersion
• diversion
• eversion
• excursion
• immersion
• incursion
• inversion
• perversion
• reversion