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What does "initialize" mean in programming?
initialize is one of the most common terms in software development. This guide explains what it means, how it is used in practice, and why it matters, with real examples from the developer world.
Definition
To set a variable, object, or system to its starting state or value. Initialization happens once, before the variable or object is used.
Example
"let count = 0; // initializing count to zero"
Word forms
| Form | Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| initialize | verb (infinitive) | To set a variable or object to its starting value | "Initialize the counter to zero before the loop." |
| initialized | past tense | Set to a starting value | "The database connection was initialized at startup." |
| initializing | gerund | Setting to a starting value | "Initializing the state inside the constructor is a common pattern." |
Related terms
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