Source : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing

breadth first search
     
         A graph search {algorithm} which tries all
        one-step extensions of current paths before trying larger
        extensions.  This requires all current paths to be kept in
        memory simultaneously, or at least their end points.
     
        Opposite of {depth-first search}.  See also {best first
        search}.
     
        (1996-01-05)