ACYCLIC Meaning and
Definition
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Acyclic is an adjective that describes something that lacks cycles or loops, particularly in the context of mathematics, computer science, and graph theory. In general, acyclic refers to a structure, system, or process without any closed paths or circular dependencies.
In mathematics, an acyclic graph is a type of directed graph that does not contain any directed cycles. This means that it does not have any sequence of edges that starts and ends at the same vertex, thereby preventing the formation of closed loops. Acyclic graphs often have a linear or tree-like structure, where each node can be reached from another node by a unique directed path.
In computer science, acyclic can describe a data structure or algorithm that avoids cycles. For example, in a linked list, acyclic means that there are no loops in the list and each node has a reference pointing to the next node, creating a linear structure. Similarly, in programming, an acyclic dependency graph refers to a program or module that doesn't have circular dependencies, ensuring a proper order of execution.
Overall, acyclic refers to entities without cycles or loops in various disciplines, highlighting the absence of closed paths or circular dependencies. It denotes a linear or tree-like structure where there are no sequences that start and end at the same point.
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Not cyclic, noting especially an.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACYCLIC
Etymology of ACYCLIC
The word "acyclic" is formed by combining two Latin roots: "a-" and "cyclicus".
The prefix "a-" comes from the Greek language, meaning "without" or "not". In this context, it indicates the absence or negation of something cyclic or circular.
The root "cyclicus" is derived from the Latin word "cyclus", which itself traces back to the Greek word "kyklos", meaning "circle" or "cycle". The suffix "-ic" is used to form adjectives in English.
Therefore, putting it together, "acyclic" literally means "not cyclic" or "lacking a cycle". It is commonly used in various scientific and mathematical contexts to describe a structure, process, or system that is not cyclic or does not form a closed loop.
Similar spelling words for ACYCLIC
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