Linearized

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To reshape a complex structure into a simplified straight format, allowing clearer analysis and interpretation
2. Changed from a complex or nonlinear state into a simplified straight or sequential arrangement
3. Converted so that elements follow a straight line or sequence, removing curves or complications

Etymology: This is an inflected form, so briefly: "linearized" is the past tense and past participle of "linearize," which is built from "linear" and the suffix "-ize." The base "linear" comes from Latin "linearis," from "linea," meaning "line," itself derived from "linum," the flax whose thread was used to draw straight lines. The "-ize" ending traces back through Late Latin "-izare" and Greek "-izein," a verb-forming suffix that turns a noun or adjective into a verb meaning "to make into" or "to treat in the manner of." English took it up through Old French, and "linearize" is a straightforward combination of the two parts.

Synonyms: straightened, flattened, simplified