stepwise function
nounUK /ˈstɛpwaɪz ˈfʌŋkʃən/
US /ˈstɛpwaɪz ˈfʌŋkʃən/
A stepwise function is a math rule that stays flat for a while, then jumps to a new flat level.
The cost of stamps is a stepwise function: it stays the same for a while, then jumps up when the price changes.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A function whose graph looks like a set of flat steps rather than a smooth line.
The graph of a stepwise function looks like a staircase going up or down.
3. A function that changes value only at certain points and stays constant in between.
A parking fee that charges by the hour is a stepwise function of time.
4. In statistics, a function that stays constant over intervals and jumps at boundaries.
The empirical distribution function is a stepwise function that rises by small jumps.