factorization

noun

fac·​tor·​i·​za·​tion ˌfak-tə-rə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce factorization (audio)
: the operation of resolving a quantity into factors
also : a product obtained by factorization
factorize transitive verb

Examples of factorization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The one-way function for RSA works in a similar manner but relies on the multiplication and factorization of large prime numbers. Jeanne Timmons, Ars Technica, 20 Sep. 2023 Suddenly, mathematicians learned to apply tools like modular arithmetic and factorization to these new number systems. Quanta Magazine, 1 Nov. 2023 The idea is to express the matrix as a product of simpler matrices—similar to the prime factorization of a number. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 17 Aug. 2023 The size of the class group associated with any extension of the integers is a barometer for how much unique factorization breaks down. Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 12 Jan. 2023 In 1994, physicist Peter Shor presented an algorithm that showed that a problem a classic computer would take billions of years to solve—factorization of large prime numbers—could be completed in a few days by a quantum computer. Susan Lahey, Popular Mechanics, 12 May 2023 Increasing the size of the keys won't help, either, since Shor's algorithm, a quantum-computing technique developed in 1994 by American mathematician Peter Shor, works orders of magnitude faster in solving integer factorization and discrete logarithmic problems. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 5 July 2022 This property is called unique factorization. Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 12 Jan. 2023 Also called prime factorization, this math problem is unbelievably difficult for classical computers to solve. Skip Sanzeri, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'factorization.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

factorize (from factor entry 1 + -ize) + -ation

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of factorization was in 1886

Dictionary Entries Near factorization

Cite this Entry

“Factorization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/factorization. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

factorization

noun
fac·​tor·​i·​za·​tion ˌfak-tə-rə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce factorization (audio)
: the act or process or an instance or result of factoring
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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