pipeline architecture
compound.compound. a way of designing computers where the processor works on several instructions at the same time, like an assembly line. Each part of the processor handles one small step of a task so the next task can start before the first one is finished.
compound. a processor design technique that allows multiple instructions to be executed in overlapping stages. By dividing the execution cycle into discrete segments, the system increases throughput by processing different parts of multiple instructions simultaneously.
Modern CPUs use pipeline architecture to process data faster.
The engineer chose a pipeline architecture for the new chip to ensure that the processor could handle high-speed data streams without bottlenecks.
While pipeline architecture significantly improves instruction throughput, it introduces complexities such as data hazards and branch mispredictions that require sophisticated hardware logic to resolve efficiently.
A compound of the Middle English pipe, from the Vulgar Latin pipa, and the architectural term derived from the Latin architectura. The metaphor draws upon the industrial concept of a continuous conduit through which material is moved in stages.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Often used as an uncountable concept in computer science, though specific designs are referred to as countable 'architectures'.
Last updated July 22, 2026