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Glite Dictionary
multiprogramming

multiprogramming

7.0
A way to run two or more computer programs at the same time on one computer
  • noun
  • /ˌmʌltiˈproʊɡræmɪŋ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : multiprogramación
  • S/390 systems typically operate at a very high degree of multiprogramming, with many tasks being managed at once by the OS/390 operating system.

Examples

  • Modern operating systems use multiprogramming to run multiple applications simultaneously without interference.

  • During multiprogramming, the CPU switches between programs, ensuring that all processes receive time to execute.

  • The efficiency of a computer can improve significantly with effective multiprogramming techniques in place.

Synonyms

multitasking
vsmultiprogramming
  • Specialized
5 3.5

A computer running more than one program at the same time

focuses on actual running by a single computer rather than general capability
concurrency
vsmultiprogramming
2 8.1

Two or more events happening at the same time

refers to concrete execution of programs by a single computer rather than abstract state
concurrent operation
vsmultiprogramming
  • Specialized
1 5.6

Two or more actions that happen at the same time

is used specifically for programs running together on one computer
concurrent execution
vsmultiprogramming
  • Specialized
6.7

Two or more programs run at the same time on one computer

means the same exact idea of programs running together on a single machine
simultaneous operation
vsmultiprogramming
4.4

Two or more things working at the same time

is narrower, applying to programs running on one machine rather than any operations

How Many Programs

multiprogramming
  • Specialized
7.0
multitasking
  • Specialized
5 3.5

Surface Forms

multiprogramming singular
multiprogrammings plural

Morphology

multiprogramming = programming (semi-transparent) = multi + program + ing

The structure is clear as 'multi' + 'programming', but the computing sense is specialized and not fully predictable for a learner.

Etymology

The word multiprogramming starts with multi- ('many'), like in 'multiple', and the rest comes from program ('a set of instructions'). So, multiprogramming is running 'many' programs on one computer at the same time.