bootstrap
UK[ˈbuːtstræp]US[ˈbuːtstræp]
n
a loop at the back of a boot used to pull it on.
n
a technique of loading a program into a computer by means of a few initial instructions which enable the introduction of the rest of the program from an input device.
v
to start or develop something using existing resources or minimal external help.
Morpheme Breakdown
boot
strap
boot
strap
Etymology
the word 'bootstrap' is a transparent compound from old english elements, literally referring to a strap sewn onto a boot to aid in pulling it on. this literal meaning gave rise to the metaphorical phrase "to pull oneself up by one's bootstraps," an impossible physical task used to describe achieving success through one's own efforts without external help. in the mid-20th century, this metaphor was adopted in computing to describe a process where a simple initial program loads a more complex system, a process seemingly starting itself. the term has since generalized into a verb meaning to start or develop something using minimal resources.
Analysis
Structure: boot + strap
boot (old english, a type of footwear) + strap (old english, a narrow strip of flexible material used for fastening or pulling)
Examples
he tugged on the bootstrap to pull his heavy boot on.
the computer's bios performs a bootstrap process when it is powered on.
they managed to bootstrap the company with just a small personal loan.