Definition

Relating to a process that repeats itself or refers back to itself, often used in programming and mathematics.

Example

The recursive function calculates the factorial of a number by calling itself with a smaller number.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to understand recursive functions in programming?

Yeah, they can be pretty tricky at first.

I find it fascinating how they keep calling themselves.

Right? It’s like a loop that never ends until you set a base case.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Recursive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "currere" (meaning to run). The word describes a process that runs again or repeats itself.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'runs again' — 're-' means again, and 'currere' means to run.

Visually Confused Words