number crunching

2 definitions found

number crunching - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  number crunching
      n 1: performing complex and lengthy numerical calculations

number crunching - Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (26 May 2007) :

  number crunching
  
     <application, jargon> Computations of a numerical nature,
     especially those that make extensive use of floating-point
     numbers.  The only thing Fortrash is good for.
  
     This term is in widespread informal use outside hackerdom and
     even in mainstream slang, but has additional hackish
     connotations: namely, that the computations are mindless and
     involve massive use of brute force.  This is not always
     evil, especially if it involves ray tracing or fractals
     or some other use that makes pretty pictures, especially if
     such pictures can be used as wallpaper.
  
     See also crunch.
  
     [Jargon File]
  
     (1995-03-17)