# processing

/ˈpɹɑsɛsɪŋ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/processing
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. computing and data

noun · CEFR B2

the way a computer handles, changes, or saves information.

For teachers: the automated manipulation of data by a computer, including retrieval, transformation, and storage.

- The new laptop has a much faster speed for video processing.
- Cloud-based processing allows the company to analyse massive datasets without investing in expensive local hardware.

Usage: Often used in the compound 'data processing'.

### 2. administrative tasks

noun · CEFR B2

the act of dealing with official documents or requests in a specific order.

For teachers: the systematic handling of applications, documents, or transactions through a series of administrative stages.

- The processing of your visa application will take about two weeks.
- The bank streamlined its loan processing to ensure that small business owners received a decision within forty-eight hours.

Usage: Commonly used regarding visas, loans, or applications.

### 3. manufacturing or food

noun · CEFR B2

the treatment of raw materials or food to change them or make them last longer.

For teachers: the industrial treatment of raw materials or food products to alter their state or preserve them.

- Heavy processing can remove many of the natural vitamins from food.
- The facility specialises in the chemical processing of raw timber into high-quality paper pulp for the publishing industry.

Usage: Often appears in the phrase 'food processing'.

## Examples

- The computer is still processing your request.
- Modern smartphones have enough power for real-time video processing without draining the battery too quickly.
- The delay in the system was caused by the heavy processing required to encrypt the large database files before they were sent to the cloud server.

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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.