Cohen-Sutherland algorithm

proper noun

An algorithm used for line clipping. It divides a two-dimensional space into nine regions (or a three-dimensional space into 27 regions), and then efficiently determines the lines and portions of lines that are visible in the central region, or viewport.

Meanings

proper noun
  1. computer graphicsAn algorithm used for line clipping. It divides a two-dimensional space into nine regions (or a three-dimensional space into 27 regions), and then efficiently determines the lines and portions of lines that are visible in the central region, or viewport.

Origin

The algorithm was developed in 1967 during flight simulator work by Danny Cohen and Ivan Sutherland.

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

Cohen-Sutherland algorithm. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 2, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Cohen-Sutherland%20algorithm

MLA

“Cohen-Sutherland algorithm.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Cohen-Sutherland%20algorithm. Accessed November 2, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Cohen-Sutherland algorithm,” accessed November 2, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Cohen-Sutherland%20algorithm.

Source: Cohen-Sutherland algorithm on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.