Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

black-box

noun

/blak boks/

Definition

A system or device whose internal workings are not visible or known to the user, but whose inputs and outputs are observable.

Examples

The software operates like a black-box, making it challenging to troubleshoot issues.
In the study of economics, consumer behavior can often be viewed as a black-box due to the complexity of individual decision-making.

Meaning

The term refers to a complex system that is understood only in terms of its interface and the results produced, without any knowledge of the underlying processes.