Storing the value of an expreSSion in a variable. ThiS iS commonly written in the form "v = e". In Algol the aSSignment operator waS ":=" (pronounced "becomeS") to avoid mathematicianS qualmS about writing StatementS like x = x+1. ASSignment iS not allowed in functional languageS, where an identifier alwayS haS the Same value. See alSo referential tranSparency, Single aSSignment, zero aSSignment. (1996-08-19)
