XOR

noun

ˌeks-ˈȯr 

ˈzȯr

: a logical operator whose output is true when either of two inputs are true but not both

The output varies according to the relative characteristics of the inputs, and by manipulating these the device can be made to perform the functions of all the kinds of logic gates used in computer circuitry (OR, NOR, AND, NAND and XOR).

—D. E. Thomsen, Science News, 29 Oct. 1983

called also exclusive or

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

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