forcing function

noun

A function in a system of differential equations that is only a function of time, unaffected by the other variables; or, more generally, any non-homogeneous source function in any variable.

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Meanings

nounforcing function (plural forcing functions)

plural forcing functions

  1. mathematicsA function in a system of differential equations that is only a function of time, unaffected by the other variables; or, more generally, any non-homogeneous source function in any variable.
  2. computingAn aspect of interface design that restricts a user's abilities in order to streamline completion of a task.
  3. broadlyAny task, activity or event that forces one to take action and produce a result; impetus, impulse.
Cite this entry
APA

forcing function. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/forcing%20function

MLA

“forcing function.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/forcing%20function. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “forcing function,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/forcing%20function.

Source: forcing function on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.