Process

/ˈprɑsɛs/ noun

Definition

An independent execution environment that contains a running program with its own memory space, system resources, and security context. Processes are isolated from each other by the operating system.

Etymology

From Latin 'processus' meaning 'a going forward' or 'advance'. In computing, the term was adopted in the 1960s with early operating systems to describe independent programs 'proceeding' through execution with their own allocated resources.

Kelly Says

A process is like having your own private apartment - you have your own space, your own stuff, and your neighbors can't just walk in and mess with your things. Each running program gets its own 'apartment' in the computer's memory!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.