Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Halting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⏸️
Add to dictionary

halting

[ˈhɒltɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

computing

Stopping or causing something to stop temporarily.

Synonyms

interrupting, pausing, stopping.

Examples of usage

  • The halting problem is a well-known problem in computer science.
  • The program entered a halting state after encountering an error.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A disruption in the movement or progress of something.

Synonyms

blockage, interruption, obstruction.

Examples of usage

  • The halting of the project due to lack of funding was disappointing.
  • The protests caused a halting in traffic flow.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Halting speech can be a sign of anxiety or nervousness, where a person struggles to find the right words.
  • In therapy, discussing feelings can be halting, representing an emotional block that needs addressing.
  • People often use halting speech when sharing difficult experiences, as they may pause to gather thoughts.

Literature

  • Authors often use halting dialogue to portray characters grappling with their emotions or unsure of themselves.
  • In poetry, halting rhythms can evoke feelings of hesitation or reflection, adding depth to the piece.
  • Classic literature frequently depicts heroes in halting moments to emphasize their internal conflict.

Performance Arts

  • Actors might intentionally use halting delivery to portray characters who are nervous or conflicted.
  • In dance, halting movements can create dramatic tension, capturing the audience's attention.
  • Halting speech is a common technique in stand-up comedy to build suspense before delivering a punchline.

Technology

  • In programming, a 'halting problem' refers to determining if a program will finish running or continue indefinitely.
  • Halting issues in software can lead to crashes or freezes, affecting user experience.
  • Voice recognition technology often struggles with halting speech, making accurate transcription more challenging.

Origin of 'halting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'halting', which originally meant to stop or waver.
  • Its roots trace back to Old Norse 'halta', meaning to limp or walk awkwardly.
  • By the late 14th century, it evolved to describe both physical and verbal hesitations.

The word 'halting' originated from the Middle English word 'halt', meaning to stop or cease. It has evolved over time to represent the act of stopping or causing something to stop temporarily. In computing, 'halting' specifically refers to the state of a program when it stops executing. The term has been used in various contexts to describe interruptions or disruptions in movement or progress.

See also: halt, halted, halter.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,559, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.