I. ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
1. : the return to the input of a part of the output of a machine, system, or process: as
a. : the return to the input of a part of the output of an electronic amplifying system leading to increased amplification or decreased amplification or control of the quality of the signal — see negative feedback , positive feedback
b. : the return to the input of a part of the output of a mechanism, this part of the input constituting information that reports discrepancies between intended and actual operation and leads to a self-correcting action that can be utilized (as in the automatic operation of machinery)
feedback control system
2. : the partial reversion of the effects of a given process to its source or to a preceding stage so as to reinforce or modify it — used especially of biological, psychological, and social systems
II. noun
: the transmission of evaluative or corrective information about an action, event, or process to the original or controlling source ; also : the information so transmitted