input

[in-poo t] /ˈɪnˌpʊt/
noun
1.
something that is put in.
2.
the act or process of putting in.
3.
the power or energy supplied to a machine.
4.
the current or voltage applied to an electric or electronic circuit or device.
Compare output (def 4).
5.
Computers.
  1. data to be entered into a computer for processing.
  2. the process of introducing data into the internal storage of a computer.
6.
contribution of information, ideas, opinions, or the like:
Before making a decision we need your input.
7.
the available data for solving a technical problem.
8.
Scot. a monetary contribution, as to charity.
adjective
9.
of or pertaining to data or equipment used for input:
The goal is to reduce input costs.
verb (used with object), inputted or input, inputting.
10.
Computers. to enter (data) into a computer for processing.
11.
to contribute (ideas, information, or suggestions) to a project, discussion, etc.
Origin
1745-55; in-1 + put
Examples from the web for input
  • Low-input agriculture uses fewer chemicals but more land.
  • But they were aware that there was an algorithm out there awaiting their input to reshape itself to their desires.
  • These chapters provide the scientific input for the theological discussions that follow.
  • In many cases the entire project from conception to publication is without any significant input from the director.
  • Deep structures are the input to the semantic component, which describes their meaning.
  • Surface structures are the input to the phonological component, which describes their sound.
  • Consistent, regular input can help you break through stagnant periods, and harness the productive ones.
  • The twist is that all input is handwritten, and not typed.
  • As the announcement notes, these changes help the system learn more quickly from user input about the importance of messages.
  • Thanks, everyone, for the input as well as the encouragement.
British Dictionary definitions for input

input

/ˈɪnˌpʊt/
noun
1.
the act of putting in
2.
that which is put in
3.
(often pl) a resource required for industrial production, such as capital goods, labour services, raw materials, etc
4.
(electronics)
  1. the signal or current fed into a component or circuit
  2. the terminals, or some other point, to which the signal is applied
5.
(computing) the data fed into a computer from a peripheral device
6.
(modifier) of or relating to electronic, computer, or other input
verb -puts, -putting, -put, -putted
7.
(transitive) to insert (data) into a computer
Word Origin and History for input
n.

1793, "a sum (of cash) put in," from in + put. Computing sense of "data fed into a machine" is from 1948; the verb in the computing sense is attested from 1946. There was a Middle English verb input (late 14c.) meaning "to put in, place, set," but it died out long before this.

input in Technology


ALPHA

architecture
Data transferred from the outside world into a computer system via some kind of input device.
Opposite: output.
(1997-04-28)