Word
child process
Definition
compound. a computer program that is started by another program. You use this term when one main task creates smaller tasks to help it finish its work.
compound. a subprocess generated by a parent process within a multitasking operating system. It inherits certain attributes from the parent and typically operates under its control or monitoring.
Examples
“The main program starts a child process to handle the data.”
“When the web browser crashes, it is often because a specific child process failed while loading a heavy website.”
“The operating system must efficiently manage the termination of each child process to prevent the accumulation of zombie processes that consume system resources.”
Examples
simple
“The main program starts a child process to handle the data.”
contextual
“When the web browser crashes, it is often because a specific child process failed while loading a heavy website.”
complex
“The operating system must efficiently manage the termination of each child process to prevent the accumulation of zombie processes that consume system resources.”
Usage
primarily used in computing and software development contexts; usually functions as a countable noun.
Teaching tip
use the parent-child metaphor to explain the hierarchy of execution and resource inheritance in operating systems.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/child-process