# paging

/ˈpeɪdʒɪŋ/ (US) · /pˈeɪdʒɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paging
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the process of moving data between a computer's main memory and a slower storage device. It helps the computer run faster by keeping only the most important information in the main memory.

For teachers: the process of transferring data between a computer's main memory and secondary storage. This allows the operating system to manage memory more efficiently by swapping out less frequently used data to disk.

## Examples

- The system uses paging to manage memory when the computer runs out of RAM.
- If your computer is paging frequently, it might be because you have too many programs open at once.
- Modern operating systems implement sophisticated paging algorithms to minimize the performance overhead associated with swapping data between the high-speed cache and the slower hard drive.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.