Processing

Definition

Processing typically refers to the action of taking something through an established and usually routine set of procedures to convert it from one form to another.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (Process)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɑsɛsɪŋ/
• Respelling: PRAH-sess-ing (with "PRAH" as in "cot," "sess" as in "less," and "ing" as in "singing")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprəʊsɛsɪŋ/
• Respelling: PROH-sess-ing (with "PROH" as in "pro," "sess" as in "less," and "ing" as in "singing")

In both dialects, "processing" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. The American pronunciation uses a more open 'ah' sound in "PRAH," whereas the British pronunciation uses a more rounded 'oh' sound in "PROH." Both emphasize the first syllable clearly.

Etymology

"Processing" is derived from the verb "process," which comes from the Latin word "processus," meaning "a going forward." "Processus" is formed from the verb "procedere," which combines "pro-" (forward) with "cedere" (to go). The term later evolved to mean "a particular course of action intended to achieve a result," and the act of doing so came to be known as "processing."

Derivatives

• Preprocessing
• Re-processing
• Processed
• Processor
• Unprocessed

Synonyms

• Handling
• Refining
• Treatment

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Stagnation
• None

Usage

"Processing" is a versatile term used in many contexts, from computing (where data undergoes processing) to manufacturing (where raw materials may be processed into finished goods) and photography (where film is processed).

Related Terms

• Process
• Procedure
• Processual

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Action of Subjecting Material or Information: The method or action of subjecting material or information to a series of operations to achieve a particular result.
• Example: The processing of raw cotton involves cleaning and separating fibers from seeds.

• Computer Operations: The operations a computer performs on data to transform, store, retrieve, or transmit it.
• Example: High-end graphics require fast processing speeds.

Verb (Process)

• To Handle or Manage: To deal with someone or something according to an established procedure.
• Example: The applications are processed in the order they are received.

• To Prepare or Convert: To treat or prepare something in a series of steps or with a particular chemical action.
• Example: The plant processes raw materials into finished products.