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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The new research shows that an algorithm using quantum Fourier transforms can perform this factorization efficiently. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2025 The Quantum Threat Conventional cryptographic protocols such as RSA, ECC and Diffie-Hellman rely on the computational difficulty of mathematical problems like integer factorization and discrete logarithms to provide security. Dino Dimarino, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025 Less obvious is what also has been demonstrated—that quantum computers can offer dramatic gains in solving some kinds of non–quantum mechanical problems, such as factorization. Charina Chou, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 In 1994, the mathematician Peter Shor discovered a way for quantum computers to efficiently reverse the trapdoor functions that underlie most current public key cryptography systems, including prime factorization. John Pavlus, WIRED, 15 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for factorization

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Factorization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/factorization. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!