Runtime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⏳

Add to dictionary

runtime

[ˈrʌnˌtaɪm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computer programming

The period of time when a program is running on a computer, from start to finish.

Synonyms

execution time, operating time, processing time.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
runtime	Used mainly in computer science to refer to the period when a program is running. This term is common in programming and technical documentation. The bug only appears during runtime. We need to check the runtime performance of the application.
execution time	Refers to the time it takes for a program or algorithm to execute. Typically used in the context of performance analysis and benchmarking. The execution time of the sorting algorithm is very fast. Optimizing the execution time can significantly improve performance.
processing time	Specifically refers to the time taken to process a specific task or data. Often used in computing and manufacturing contexts to describe efficiency. The processing time for these transactions is too long. We aim to reduce the processing time by upgrading our servers.
operating time	Generally used in broader contexts outside of just computing. It can refer to the time a machine, system, or device is operational. Often used in engineering and management. The operating time of the machine should be logged. We need to minimize the operating time to reduce costs.

Examples of usage

The runtime of the application is crucial for its performance.
The runtime error caused the program to crash.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

film industry

The duration of a movie or a play.

Synonyms

duration, duration time, length.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
runtime	Used typically in the context of movies, shows, or software programs to indicate the total time from start to finish. The movie's runtime is 120 minutes. Please check the runtime error in the software.
duration	General term for the length of time something lasts. Can be used in various contexts, such as events, activities, or states. The duration of the concert was three hours. You should continue the medication for the full duration of the treatment.
length	Used to describe the measurement of how long something is. Can be used for physical objects, time periods, or other measures. The length of the bridge is 500 meters. Consider the length of the meeting before scheduling.
duration time	Less common and somewhat redundant phrase often used in technical or formal contexts. Generally interchangeable with 'duration.' The duration time of the test is 45 minutes. Accurately record the duration time of each experiment.

Examples of usage

The movie has a runtime of 2 hours.
The runtime of the play was extended due to popular demand.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

sports

The time taken to complete a race or an event.

Synonyms

competition time, event duration, race time.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
runtime	See the first entry for this word.
race time	Specifically used for the time taken to complete a race, often in sports contexts. Her race time was four minutes and thirty seconds. Improving my race time is my main goal for this year.
event duration	Describes the total length of time an event lasts, and is often used in formal contexts. The event duration is approximately three hours. Organizers announced the event duration to be six hours.
competition time	Refers to the specific time or period during which a competition takes place. The competition time is scheduled for 3 PM. Participants should be ready by the competition time.

Examples of usage

The marathon has a runtime of 3 hours.
The sprinter's runtime was impressive.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Computer Science

Runtime can vary based on the efficiency of the code and the computer’s hardware, affecting overall performance.
Dynamic versus static runtime refers to whether the program can adapt while running or if it must run with fixed parameters.
In programming, runtime errors occur when a program encounters problems while being executed, as opposed to during code compilation.

Cultural Impact

In software development, discussions around runtime performance shape how developers create more efficient applications.
With the rise of streaming services, the term 'runtime' also refers to the duration of films and series, affecting viewer engagement.

Technology

Several environments, like Java Runtime Environment (JRE), are required to run Java applications smoothly on various systems.
In modern computing, optimizing runtime performance is crucial for applications, especially in gaming and data processing.

Psychology

Times perceived as longer or shorter can affect how people review their experiences, including software usability.
Users often judge a program by its runtime; longer runtimes can lead to frustration and decreased satisfaction.

Origin of 'runtime'

Main points about word origin

The term 'runtime' combines 'run', which means to execute, and 'time', indicating duration, originating in computer programming.
It began to gain popularity in technology circles during the 1960s as programming languages evolved.

The term 'runtime' originated in the early 1960s in the field of computer programming to refer to the period during which a program is executed. It has since been adopted in various other fields such as film, sports, and theater to describe the duration of different activities. The word combines 'run' and 'time' to convey the concept of the time during which a particular task or activity is in progress.

See also: outrun, overrun, run, runaway, runnable, runner, runners, running, runoff, runs, runway.