multiprocessing: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 / Low frequency (Technical/Specialized)Technical, Academic
Quick answer
What does “multiprocessing” mean?
A computing technique where two or more central processing units (CPUs) operate simultaneously within a single computer system to execute multiple processes or programs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A computing technique where two or more central processing units (CPUs) operate simultaneously within a single computer system to execute multiple processes or programs.
More broadly, any system or mode of operation that handles multiple tasks or processes concurrently, often by distributing them across multiple processors or cores.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or meaning differences. Pronunciation may vary slightly.
Connotations
Identical in technical contexts.
Frequency
Equal frequency in relevant technical domains in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “multiprocessing” in a Sentence
[NOUN] multiprocessing[ADJECTIVE] multiprocessing[VERB] multiprocessingmultiprocessing [NOUN]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “multiprocessing” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The operating system kernels are designed to multiprocess efficiently.
American English
- The new software can multiprocess data streams for real-time analysis.
adverb
British English
- [Not a standard adverbial form. The concept is expressed otherwise.]
American English
- [Not a standard adverbial form. The concept is expressed otherwise.]
adjective
British English
- We need a multiprocessing server for the new climate modelling project.
American English
- The multiprocessing feature is a key selling point for this workstation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in IT procurement or specifications, e.g., 'The server's multiprocessing capability will handle our database load.'
Academic
Common in computer science, engineering, and physics papers discussing computational methods and system architecture.
Everyday
Very rare, limited to discussions about computer hardware with tech-savvy users.
Technical
The primary domain. Used in software documentation, hardware manuals, system architecture, and operating system theory.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “multiprocessing”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “multiprocessing”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “multiprocessing”
- Using 'multiprocessing' to refer to simply running many programs at once (which is multitasking).
- Confusing it with 'multithreading.'
- Incorrect spelling: 'multi-processing' (though hyphenated form is sometimes seen, solid form is standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, essentially. A multi-core processor is a common hardware implementation of multiprocessing, where multiple CPU cores (processors) are on a single chip.
No, not automatically. Software usually needs to be specifically designed or programmed to split its tasks across multiple processors to take full advantage of a multiprocessing system.
Symmetric Multiprocessing. It's a common multiprocessing architecture where two or more identical processors are connected to a single shared main memory and are controlled by a single operating system.
No. Since the advent of multi-core processors (dual-core, quad-core, etc.), multiprocessing is standard in most personal computers, laptops, and even smartphones.
A computing technique where two or more central processing units (CPUs) operate simultaneously within a single computer system to execute multiple processes or programs.
Multiprocessing is usually technical, academic in register.
Multiprocessing: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmʌltiˈprəʊsesɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmʌltiˈprɑːsesɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of MULTI (many) PROCESSORS (processing units) working together - MULTI-PROCESSING.
Conceptual Metaphor
A team of chefs (processors) working simultaneously on different parts of a large meal (tasks), rather than one chef doing everything one step at a time.
Practice
Quiz
What is the key distinction between multiprocessing and multitasking?