A finite difference calculated by subtracting the value of a function f(x) when x is decreased by a given amount from its value when x is increased by the same amount.
Origin
Late 19th century.
Definition of central difference in US English:
central difference
noun
Mathematics
A finite difference calculated by subtracting the value of a function f(x) when x is decreased by a given amount from its value when x is increased by the same amount.