GC: n

CT: A neural network is a “connectionist” computational system. The computational systems we write are procedural; a program starts at the first line of code, executes it, and goes on to the next, following instructions in a linear fashion. A true neural network does not follow a linear path. Rather, information is processed collectively, in parallel throughout a network of nodes (the nodes, in this case, being neurons).

S: http://natureofcode.com/book/chapter-10-neural-networks/ (last access: 3 March 2015)

N: 1. neural (adj): “pertaining to a nerve or nerves,” 1830, from Greek neuron “nerve” (see neuro-) + adjectival suffix -al. Related: Neurally.
network (n): “net-like arrangement of threads, wires, etc.,” 1550s, from net (n.) + work (n.). Extended sense of “any complex, interlocking system” is from 1839 (originally in reference to transport by rivers, canals, and railways). Meaning “broadcasting system of multiple transmitters” is from 1914; sense of “interconnected group of people” is from 1947.
2. In the field of Artificial Intelligence: A network of neuron-like elements that performs some simple logical function, typically a logic threshold function.
3. Also, an AI approach based on neurophysiological considerations.
4. neural network, neural net, NN: terms and abbreviation standardized by ISO/IEC.

S: 1. OED – http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=neural&searchmode=none; http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=network&searchmode=none (last access: 3 March 2015). 2, 3 & 4. TERMIUMPLUS.

SYN: neural net, NN, neural-level network, network of neurons, neuron network.

S: TERMIUMPLUS

CR: artificial intelligence, automatic control engineering, computer science, robotics.