brute-force
UK[ˌbruːt ˈfɔːs]US[ˌbruːt ˈfɔːrs]
adj
Using sheer power or exhaustive methods rather than intelligence or strategy.
n
A method of solving a problem that relies on trying all possible options rather than using a clever algorithm.
Morpheme Breakdown
brute
force
brute
raw
force
strength
Etymology
The term "brute-force" is a modern compound, primarily used in computing and logic, that metaphorically combines two ancient concepts of power. "Brute," from Latin brutus, originally described a dull, heavy, or irrational state, evolving to mean unrefined or raw. "Force," from Latin fortis, signifies strength and coercive power. When combined, the phrase paints a vivid picture of problem-solving through the application of raw, undirected strength—overpowering a challenge by trying every possibility rather than employing finesse or intelligence. This logic directly connects the primitive, unthinking quality of "brute" with the sheer application of "force" to describe a method that is simple, exhaustive, and often inefficient.
Analysis
Structure: brute (raw) + force (strength)
brute: From Latin brutus (heavy, dull, stupid), via French. In this compound, it conveys the sense of raw, unthinking, or crude.
force: From Latin fortis (strong), via Old French. In this compound, it conveys the sense of applied power or effort.
Examples
Cracking the password by trying every combination is a classic brute-force attack.
The algorithm finds the solution through a brute-force search of the entire dataset.
Sometimes a brute-force approach is the only option when no clever shortcut exists.