Semaphored Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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semaphored
[ˈsɛm.ə.fɔrd ]
Definition
programming term
Semaphore is a synchronization mechanism that is used to control access to a common resource in concurrent programming environments. Semaphores can be thought of as signaling devices that enable threads to communicate about the availability of resources. In practice, they are often used to manage access to shared data, preventing race conditions and ensuring data integrity. When a process wants to access a resource, it must acquire the semaphore; if the semaphore is already taken, the process is blocked until it becomes available again.
Synonyms
coordinate, signal, synchronize.
Examples of usage
- The thread was semaphores to wait for the resource.
- The application used semaphores to manage multiple threads.
- By using semaphores, we ensured that only one process could access the critical section.
- The implementation of semaphores improved the application's performance.
- Developers used semaphores to prevent deadlock situations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Semaphore signals are still used in railway systems to indicate whether trains can pass, ensuring safety.
- In programming, semaphore is a synchronization mechanism that controls access to shared resources, preventing conflicts between processes.
- Modern maritime navigation employs lighted semaphores and automated systems that enhance the effectiveness of traditional signaling.
Art and Literature
- The concept of signaling through visual means appears in artwork, like in famous paintings that depict sailors using flags.
- In literature, semaphored communication often represents miscommunication or secret messages between characters, adding suspense to the plot.
- Notable plays and films use semaphore as a motif to symbolize unspoken truths or hidden messages between people.
Psychology
- The use of semaphore can reflect human non-verbal communication, showcasing how gestures can convey emotions without words.
- Studies in psychology highlight the importance of visual communication in understanding and interpreting emotions and intentions.
- Semaphore signals can also create a sense of teamwork and coordination, fostering social bonds among participants in a signaling activity.
Origin of 'semaphored'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek roots 'sema,' meaning 'sign,' and 'phorein,' meaning 'to carry.' Together, they suggest carrying a sign.
- The term originated in the mid-19th century, primarily used in naval communications to convey messages between ships.
- The use of this signaling system expanded with the invention of the telegraph, helping to modernize communication.
The term 'semaphore' originates from the Greek words 'sema', meaning 'sign', and 'phoros', meaning 'to bear'. Its initial meaning referred to a signaling system that conveys information through visual signals, typically involving flags or lights. The concept was later adapted into computer science, where semaphore became a critical component in the development of concurrent programming languages and operating systems. In this context, semaphores are used to prevent race conditions and ensure that multiple processes can operate without conflicting with one another. The flexibility and reliability of semaphores have made them a cornerstone of modern programming paradigms, allowing developers to manage complexity in multi-threaded applications.