recursion

noun3

1. •
   The act of defining an object (usually a function) in terms of that object itself.

   • n! = n × (n − 1)! (for n > 0) or 1 (for n = 0) defines the factorial function using recursion.
2. •
   The invocation of a procedure from within itself.

   • This function uses recursion to compute factorials.
3. •
   The act of recurring.

   • The inhabitants predicate the recursion of these storms by numerous other signs, and are prompt to take every precaution to avoid their effects. — 1852