Computer Science

Segmentation refers to the process of dividing a larger whole into its component parts, often for analysis, categorization, or communication. In linguistics, it concerns identifying boundaries between discourse units, words, or phonemes. In psychology and data science, segmentation denotes dividing continuous streams into discrete segments for interpretation or processing.

Semaphore is a noun referring to a signaling device that communicates information by visual signals, typically via flags, arms, or lights. It also denotes the system or method of signaling itself. The term embodies a structured, rule-based code used to convey messages over distances, historically in maritime and military contexts, and more broadly as a metaphor for signaling protocols.

A word used for a person who serves food or drinks, and in computing a program or machine that provides services to other devices or users. As a noun, it commonly denotes hospitality staff or a networked service in tech contexts; as a verb, to serve means to perform duties for others. In everyday use, it often occurs in phrases like "waiter/waitress and server" and "file server."

Socket refers to a hollow or receptacle designed to hold something in place, such as a connector port or an anatomical cavity into which another object fits. The term can describe electrical, mechanical, or biological contexts, and implies a snug, secure fit. It is commonly used in technical, engineering, and medical discussions to denote an interface that accepts a counterpart or plug.

Spam is a noun referring to unsolicited or irrelevant messages, especially advertising emails or messages sent in bulk. It can also mean meat canned in gelatin, popularly known as canned luncheon meat. In contemporary usage, it often denotes digital junk mail or any repetitive, unwanted content. The term carries a slightly humorous or pejorative connotation when addressing bulk messaging.

Stack (noun) refers to a neat pile or heap of objects, or a set of items arranged one atop another. It can also mean a column of data or a stack of programming elements. In computing, it denotes a region of memory where data is stacked. The term is widely used across everyday language and technical jargon alike, often implying orderly accumulation or a heap ready for processing.

String (noun) refers to a slender, flexible length used to tie, fasten, or suspend objects; it can also mean a linear sequence in music, computing, or other systems. In everyday talk, it denotes a cord-like material, such as a string of yarn or a guitar string. The term also appears in phrases signaling succession or continuity, like a string of events.

Switch (noun or verb) refers to a small lever or control used to alternate between states or paths, or the act of changing from one thing to another. It denotes a deliberate, often quick, transfer or replacement, and can imply a choice or transition. In everyday use, switch also describes toggling settings or modes in devices or systems.

Synchronization is the process of coordinating events to occur at the same time, or the act of arranging things to occur in unison. It emphasizes precise timing and alignment, often across systems or actions, to create a cohesive, harmonious operation or outcome. As a noun, it can refer to mechanical, biological, or digital synchronization in various disciplines.

Syntax is the branch of linguistics that studies the rules by which words are combined to form phrases and sentences. It also refers to the arrangement of words, phrases, and clauses to convey meaning. In computing, syntax defines the structural rules of programming languages and data formats. Mastery of syntax helps you parse meaning and build well-formed expressions in language or code.

A brief evaluation or assessment, often formal, designed to measure knowledge, ability, or performance. It can be a single exercise or a structured test with questions, tasks, or problems. In everyday use, it also means to try or try out something to see how well it works. The term spans education, psychology, and quality assurance contexts.

Thread (noun) refers to a long, slender line of twisted fibers used in sewing, knitting, or stitching. It also denotes a sequence or strand connecting elements, such as a thread of discussion. The term originates from textile practice and extends metaphorically to ongoing topics or narratives in conversations and online forums.

Throughput is a noun referring to the rate at which a system processes inputs or data over a given period, typically measured in units per second. It reflects efficiency and capacity, often used in computing, networking, and manufacturing contexts. It emphasizes the actual flow of work through a system rather than its potential capacity or latency.

Thunk refers to a sudden, heavy sound produced by something falling or being struck, or to a mental process of a sudden realization. In phonetics, thunk is a monosyllabic word beginning with the voiceless dental fricative cluster /θ/ followed by /ʌ/ and ending in /ŋ/. It can function as a noun or verb in informal speech, often conveying abruptness or decisiveness in action or thought.

Topology is a branch of mathematics dealing with properties preserved through deformations, twistings, and stretchings of objects. It studies spatial properties that remain invariant under continuous transformations, such as connectivity and boundary structure. In short, topology focuses on the qualitative aspects of space rather than precise measurements or distances.

A word referring to an instance of buying or selling something, or to the act of conducting business dealings. It typically denotes a formal exchange, often recorded or completed through a mechanism like a sale, transfer, or agreement. In linguistics it can also describe the process of transmitting data or funds between parties. The term spans commerce, finance, and information systems contexts.

Tree is a perennial woody plant with a single trunk that typically grows taller than a shrub and has branches forming a crown. It serves ecological roles, provides resources like shade and timber, and appears in many idioms and expressions. In everyday language, it denotes a basic, concrete object and is used in various contexts from nature to possessions (e.g., Christmas tree).

Uptime (noun) refers to the period during which a system, device, or service is operational and available. It contrasts with downtime, the interval when the system is unavailable. In tech contexts, uptime is a key reliability metric, often expressed as a percentage over a given time frame. The term emphasizes continuous, uninterrupted service rather than occasional outages.

Variable is an adjective describing something that is liable to change or that varies. It also denotes a symbol in math or science representing an unknown or changeable quantity. The term is common in technical, scientific, and statistical contexts, as well as in everyday descriptions of fluctuating conditions.