english word · 2026-09-21
idempotent
adjective
Meaning
Describes an operation that can be applied multiple times without changing the result beyond the initial application. In programming, it ensures that repeating a request or command has the same effect as doing it just once, preventing unintended side effects.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'idem' (same) and 'potens' (power).
Examples
"We should make the payment retry logic idempotent so the customer isn't charged twice if the network flickers."
"A 'set user to active' function is naturally idempotent because calling it again doesn't change the user's status once they are already active."
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