initialize

[ ih-nish-uh-lahyz ]
/ ɪˈnɪʃ əˌlaɪz /

verb (used with object), in·i·tial·ized, in·i·tial·iz·ing. Computers.

to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram.
to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use.
Also especially British, in·i·tial·ise.

Origin of initialize

First recorded in 1955–60; initial + -ize

Words nearby initialize

initial, initial code, initial rhyme, initial teaching alphabet, initialism, initialize, initiate, initiating agent, initiation, initiation factor, initiative

British Dictionary definitions for initialising

initialize

initialise

/ (ɪˈnɪʃəˌlaɪz) /

verb

(tr) to assign an initial value to (a variable or storage location) in a computer program

Derived forms of initialize

initialization or initialisation, noun