Throttling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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throttling

[หˆฮธrษ’t.ษ™l.ษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

network control

Throttling refers to the intentional slowing down of a process or data transfer rate, usually to prevent overload and ensure stability. In a network context, it controls the amount of bandwidth used by an application, helping to manage traffic and prioritize essential services. This technique is commonly used by internet service providers to regulate user connections during peak usage times. Throttling can help optimize performance and maintain service quality, especially when resources are limited.

Synonyms

limitation, regulation, restriction.

Examples of usage

  • The ISP implemented throttling during peak hours.
  • Throttling can affect video streaming quality.
  • Users experienced throttling on their download speeds.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computer networks, throttling is used to limit data transmission speed to prevent overload.
  • Streaming services often use throttling to manage bandwidth and ensure smoother playback, especially during peak times.
  • Throttling can occur in mobile data plans to control usage and avoid exceeding limits, affecting video quality.

Psychology

  • Throttling can be a metaphor for how individuals manage their emotions, such as controlling anger or excitement.
  • In stress management, learning to throttle your responses can help in maintaining calm in challenging situations.
  • The concept relates to self-regulation, where one intentionally slows down reactions to make more reasoned choices.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in discussions about internet service providers and their practices in controlling bandwidth for users.
  • In action movies, 'throttling' can refer to characters speeding up or slowing down situations to create tension or drama.
  • Video games often incorporate throttling mechanics, allowing players to control pace for strategic advantage.

Science

  • Engineers use throttling in thermodynamics to explain how controlling the flow of fluids affects energy efficiency.
  • In ecology, throttling conceptually applies to predator-prey dynamics, where the populations are controlled by available resources.
  • Airflow throttling is critical in aerospace engineering, impacting aircraft performance and fuel consumption.

Origin of 'throttling'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'throttle' comes from the Old English 'รพrot,' meaning throat, referencing control of flow.
  • Initially, it referred to a valve that controls fuel or air supply to an engine or machinery.
  • In the 19th century, 'throttling' was used in steam engines to manage speed and performance.

The term 'throttling' originates from the verb 'throttle,' which in Middle English means to crush or choke. The word has its roots in the Old English 'รพrotian,' meaning to choke or throttle. This concept evolved to signify the controlling of airflow in engines and machines, where throttling would optimize power and efficiency by managing fuel or air intake. Over time, the term expanded into the digital realm, where it describes the control of data transfer rates in networking. As internet usage grew, throttling became a relevant topic in discussions about bandwidth management, net neutrality, and user experience.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,711, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.