idempotent
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Definition
- Adjective:
- Unchanged in value following multiplication by itself: In mathematics and computer science, an operation or element is described as "idempotent" if applying it multiple times yields the same result as applying it once. For example, multiplying a number by 1 is idempotent because 1 × 1 = 1.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- In programming, the HTTP method
PUTis often designed to be idempotent. - The identity matrix is idempotent because when you multiply it by itself, you get the same matrix.
- Setting a variable to a specific value is an idempotent operation.
Advanced Usage
Idempotence in Computing: A key concept in designing reliable systems, especially for network operations and APIs. An idempotent request can be safely repeated without causing unintended side effects.
- Making an API call idempotent prevents duplicate transactions if a request is sent multiple times due to network issues.
Idempotent Element in Algebra: An element in a set (like a matrix or a function) that, when combined with itself under a given operation (like multiplication or function composition), yields itself.
- The zero function under composition is idempotent because f(f(x)) = f(x).
Variants and Related Words
- Idempotence (noun): The property of being idempotent.
- The idempotence of the operation guarantees consistency.
Synonyms
- Nullipotent (in specific contexts, though this often means an operation that has no effect, which is a form of idempotence).
- Self-identical under the operation (a descriptive phrase).
Antonyms
- Non-idempotent: Not having the idempotent property.
- The
POSTmethod is typically non-idempotent as it may create a new resource each time it is called.
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Idempotent Law: A law in Boolean algebra and set theory stating that an element combined with itself is equal to itself (e.g., A ∪ A = A, A ∩ A = A).
- Idempotent Semigroup: A mathematical structure where every element is idempotent.
Adjective
- unchanged in value following multiplication by itself
- this matrix is idempotent